Category Archives: Uncategorized

A Brief One from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted March 9th. 2025

A few days ago I took a  picture of the following sign prominently displayed in St. Catharines on Bunting Road– one of the busier roads urban roads in Niagara – in front of a headquarters for  UNIFOR, representing an amalgamation of Canadian Auto Workers and Communications, Energy and Paperworkers. in our region of Ontario.

It is one more of numerous expressions of the growing patriotism across our Canada and the anger so many of us feel for the threats that Trump and idiotocracy  are aiming our way.

If you come across a ‘sign of the times’ that you can take a photo of Niagara At Large is certainly willing to consider posting it on this news and commentary site. You can sent any photo or image as a jpeg to the following email address – drapers@vaxxine.com .

In the meantime, lets stand together by buying as many Canadian products as we can and by cancelling trips and boycotting everything made in the U.S.A. Together, we can build a strong Canada with other friends and allies around the world and disentangle  our country from the clutches of this  creep south of the border.

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

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

Gone But Hopefully Always An Inspiration To All

A Few Brief Words from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted March 18^th, 2025

On this March 8^th day for celebrating the achievements of women around the world, I want to say a few words about two great women I was fortunate enough to meet who were true pioneers for women in Niagara.

The first is Eleanor Lancaster from St. Catharines who left us this past January at age 97 and who was one of the first women to shatter the glass ceiling in what was mostly a man’s world with her success in municipal politics, including serving with honour on Niagara Regional Council from 1982  to 1991. Continue reading →

From Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted Friday, March 7^th, 2025

After another week of Trump dumping all over  Canada with false charges of “ripping off” the United States and his relentless threats of taking our country over by economic force, it can leave us all feeling both angry and a  bit down.

But here is something that a friend and long-time reader of Niagara At Large sent me that should surely lift your spirits.

It is a play on the 1970s Gloria Gaynor song called ‘I Will Survive’, now retitled ‘We Will Survive’ with new lyrics by Gord Mann and great singing by Sonya Zabach.

A computerized depiction of Trump being chased out of Canada by some of our iconic furry and feathered friends

And just one final note before I hope you click on the screen immediately below and crank this new version of the song up for a listen. The lyrics are not meant to be aimed at all of our American friends and nieghbours who are just as sick of  Trump, if not more, as we are. As well as being a song of strength for us, it contains lyrics that are aimed directly at Trump and his thugs.

This is one song you might want to listen to again and again when you get up in the morning. So yourself a favour, my fellow Canadians, and click it it on here –

With that, I wish you all warm and peaceful times in the weeks and months ahead.  And please continue to stand together for Canada by buying Canadian products whenever you can, boycotting products made in the U.S.A., and joining the now over 40 per cent of Canadians who have canceled trips to the United States.

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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

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

In the Face of Trump’s Tariff War, Sobeys Is Doing Its Part to Help Consumers Buy Canadian

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

Posted March 6^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Some Niagara At Large readers may remember that it was just a few weeks ago  that I wrote a commentary applauding a Sobeys grocery store outlet off Glendale Avenue in south St. Catharines for partnering with a group of animal assistance volunteers to raise some funding to support  their efforts  to find good homes for abandoned dogs.

As I said in that commentary and I will say it again here, I am not in the habit at all of giving free plugs to private businesses unless they are doing something exceptional for the common good of the community at large.

One of the posters you are now greeted with as you are entering a Sobeys store

That said, Sobeys – an all-Canadian grocery store chain founded in Nova Scotia more than a century ago – has done an exceptional job at all of its more than 1,500 stores  across the country in joining the effort so many  Canadians citizens are making to use the power of their pocketbooks to buy products made in Canada during this potentially destructive trade war Trump has launched against us.

If you are not sure what I mean, please go check it out for your self!

Before you even reach the inside of a Sobeys store,  you are greeted by posters, one of them featuring a big red maple leaf and another picturing a Canadian farm with a barn with a maple leaf on it, that read in large letters: “So Canadian.” Continue reading →

‘It is going down not with a bang or a whimper. It is more like some tacky roadshow for the World Wrestling Federation.’           – Charlie Angus, Canadian author, musician an currently a Member of Parliament for the federal New Democrats

Posted March 6th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

Federal NDP MP Charlie Angus lashes back at Trump’s tariff war against Canada

Shortly after Trump launched his totally unjustified tariff war against Canada on what has come to be known as Tariff Tuesday on March 4th, 2025, Charlie Angus, a federal NDP MPP for the Riding of Timmins-James Bay in Ontario, delivered an address that I think articulated anger that I and many of my fellow Canadians felt and still feel today.

“Donald, we (Canadians) are nice people but you have really poked the polar bear,’ said Angus as he directly aimed some of his words at Trump.

“What we learned from Trump is that there is no normal anymore with the United States,” Angus added. “We have to build an economy for Canadians. We have to diversify our markets, and we have to build a Canadian economy that is resilient within Canada, so that no matter what that convicted predator from Mar-a-Lago threatens us, we are able to withstand the pressure.”

If you haven’t yet heard Angus’s address and are looking for something to help ventilate your feelings over what this orange-faced thug in the White House is trying to do to our Canada, I encourage you to click on the screen immediately below –

A Footnote from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Together, we Canadians can win this trade war by purchasing as many Made In Canada products as possible, by shopping and dining in as many Canadian-owned retail outlets and restaurants as possible, by cancelling all visits and vacations to the United States and by boycotting all things American.

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

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

A Message from Doug Ford, Premier-elect of Ontario

Posted March 6th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario and Canada didn’t start this tariff war against the United States, but together Team Canada will win it.

To start, I’ve directed the LCBO, the largest purchaser of alcohol in the world, to remove all American booze from the shelves. This means 3,600 products from 35 states are off our shelves.

In addition, we are cancelling the $100 million deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink. Continue reading →

“Canada’s most reliable trading partner is Canada itself. Strengthening interprovincial trade is an opportunity to unlock economic growth, drive innovation, and enhance resilience. Now is the time for provincial governments to prioritize the removal of interprovincial trade barriers.”

A Statement from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 6^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large,

Niagara, Ontario – This March 4^th’s announcement of U.S. tariffs on Canadian exports presents a significant challenge to free trade and shared economic growth. These measures will have far-reaching economic consequences for both countries, underscoring the need for a resilient and forward-thinking approach to trade.

While we remain hopeful that Canada-U.S. trade relations will stabilize at one point, today reinforces the importance of diversifying our markets and expanding global partnerships. Canadian businesses are innovative, adaptable, and competitive, and by exploring new opportunities, we can continue to build a strong and prosperous future—one that is less reliant on any single market. Continue reading →

“Among Conservative voters, 37 per cent oppose retaliatory tariffs, 37 per cent oppose banning critical exports to the United States and 37 per cent oppose a ban on Telsa sales.”

A News Commentary from Data Shows, a professional, non-partisan data gathering venue based in Ontario, Canada

Posted March 5th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Trump keeps threatening to take over Canada.

Donald Trump has launched an economic war on Canadians and has pledged to annex Canada as the 51st state, but a third of Conservatives think Donald Trump is pretty darn swell, according to an Angus Reid Institute poll released this  March 4th, 2025.

Among Conservatives, 32 per cent have a favourable view of the U.S. president. Only six, three, and two per cent of Liberals, New Democrats, and BQ supporters, respectively, have a favourable opinion of Trump.

Among non-Conservative Canadians, a very unfavourable view of Trump is near-unanimous, held by 89 per cent of Liberals, 94 per cent of New Democrats and 92 per cent of BQ supporters. Continue reading →

“Let’s leave no empty shelves in the LCBO, and let’s take this opportunity to showcase Niagara and Ontario,” – Wayne Gates

“We produce more than we consume. If Ontario doesn’t have a plan to get our products to new markets, we’re leaving workers, wineries, and local businesses behind.” – Wayne Gates

News from the Constituency Office of Niagara Falls NDP Wayne Gates, with a riding including Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake and Fort Erie

Posted March 5th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

NIAGARA FALLS – MPP-Elect Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls)  is urging the Ontario government to go beyond retaliatory measures in response to the unfair U.S. tariffs. 

While American products are being pulled from LCBO shelves, Gates is continuing his call for immediate action to restock them with Ontario-made wines, craft beer, ciders and spirits–ensuring local producers can get more Ontario-made products to market today.

“We need to fight back against these tariffs and have a real plan to support Canadian products,” said Gates. “We produce more than we consume. If Ontario doesn’t have a plan to get our products to new markets, we’re leaving workers, wineries, and local businesses behind,” said Gates. Continue reading →

“Fair trade is essential to our prosperity, and we stand with all levels of government in defending Canada’s economic interests. We encourage other municipalities to join in this collective effort to safeguard jobs, investments, and economic growth.”

A Statement from the Town of Lincoln: Support for a ‘Team Canada’ response toproposed U.S. Tariffs

Posted March 5^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Lincoln in Niagara, Ontario –  On March 3, 2025, Town of Lincoln Council voted  unanimously in favour of a motion for the Town to support a united “Team Canada” response to the 25% U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.

These tariffs pose a significant threat to local businesses, workers, and economic stability on both sides of the border.

As municipalities invest billions in infrastructure and capital projects, we recognize our role in supporting Canadian industries and advocating for fair trade policies. Continue reading →

How do animals adapt to survive in cities? Brock University researchers are hoping a little birdie will tell them.

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Niagara

Posted March 5^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – A research project led by Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences Kiyoko Gotanda and Biological Sciences PhD student Michelle Ross is examining the effects of urbanization on black-capped chickadees to gain broader insight into wildlife in urban environments.

Biological Sciences PhD student Michelle Ross (left) and second-year Biological Sciences student Wylan Clitheroe install nest boxes on Ontario Street in St. Catharines for a Brock University research project.

The team is monitoring the birds by installing Brock-branded nest boxes between 282 and 285 Ontario St. in St. Catharines, a busy stretch of road once home to an automotive manufacturing plant. Continue reading →

News from Niagara Heath, Niagara, Ontario’s amalgamated system of hospital services

Posted March 5th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Health is honoured to be recognized as one of Canada’s Top Diversity Employers for 2025, highlighting our commitment to fostering a workplace culture centred on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), and celebrating our ongoing efforts to create an inclusive environment for all employees.

The Canada’s Top Diversity Employers list honours organizations that lead the way in supporting diverse communities, including women, visible minorities, people with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Continue reading →

News from Niagara’s Regional Government in Niagara, Ontario

Posted on ‘Tariff Tuesday’ March 4^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large (This news release could only be posted by transferring a PDF copy to  jpeg images. Therefore the print is small and we apologize if that makes it a little difficult for older eyes to read.)

A Brief Footnote from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Let’s all Stand Up For Canada by purchasing as many Canadian products as we can and by boycotting products made in the United States and cancelling out trips to the United States.

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

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

“This should serve as a wake-up call to all Canadians.We must take decisive action to strengthen our own economic future by eliminating internal trade barriers, promoting the development of industries that process our own minerals and raw resources, diversifying our markets, and reinforcing partnerships with historic allies across the border.”                                                                – Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop

News from the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario

Posted on ‘Tariff Tuesday’, March 4^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

The Peace Bridge crossing between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, New York is one of North America’s busiest cross border trade routes. Photo from Town of Fort Erie.

FORT ERIE, ON – The Town of Fort Erie is expressing concern over the recent imposition of tariffs on Canada, which will have far-reaching consequences for businesses, workers, and communities on both sides of the border.

TheTown of Fort Erie, including Mayor and Council, the CAO and Senior Leadership, and local businesses, remain committed to working with Canadian and U.S. partners to alleviate the negative effects of these trade restrictions. Continue reading →

‘We didn’t start this war but we sure in hell are going to win it.’ – Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario

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

Posted on ‘Tariff Tuesday, March 4^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford punches back at the bully south of the border

It isn’t very often at all that I feel like doing a fist bump with Doug Ford even if he would do one back with one of his critics like me.

But this March 4^th, rapidly becoming known as ‘Tariff Tuesday’ because of the harmful tariffs on Canadian products that Trump has now slapped on us, the newly re-elected Premier of Ontario didn’t take long to hit back.

I made a visit to the nearest LCBO store in St. Catharines earlier on this day and staff were already busy taking every single bottle of American liquor and wine off of the shelves and piling them up in boxes on large wooden skids. Continue reading →

Posted March 4^th, 2025 by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“Today (this March 4th), the United States launched a trade war against Canada, their closest partner and ally, their closest friend. At the same time, they’re talking about working positively with Russia, appeasing Vladimir Putin, a lying, murderous dictator.

“Make that make sense.

“Canadians are reasonable and we are polite, but we will not back down from a fight — not when our country and the well-being of everyone in it is at stake. At the moment, the U.S. tariffs came into effect in the early hours of this morning, and so did the Canadian response.”                                                                                  – from a March 4^th, 2025 address by Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau on Trump’s launch of a tariff war

In case you missed it, you can hear and watch Trudeau’s full address by clicking on the screen immediately below –

A Footnote from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Let’s All STAND UP FOR CANADA by buying all of the  products we can from Canadian producers and/or other friendly countries in Europe, in Central and South America  and other parts of the and by boycotting all U.S. products and boycotting the United States as a place to take a day trip and as tourist destination.

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

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

Why This Tariff War? – ‘Trump personally loathes Canada, a nation most of the world stereotypes as “nice.” Obviously not every Canadian is a nice person. But Canadians are relatively courteous on average, and the country’s social and economic policies are relatively decent by international standards.’               –  Long-time U.S. newspaper columnist and Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman

A Commentary by Paul Krugman, a U.S. citizen, a former long-time columnist for The New York Times and Nobel Prize winning economist

Posted March 4^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

U..S. columnist and Nobel Prize-winning columnist Paul Krugman

It seems clear to me that Trump hates Canada for (its) decency.

To be fair, there are some efforts to explain what’s happening that go beyond Trump’s personal pathology.

Some Canadians think Trump covets their mineral wealth. And there’s always the possibility that Trump knows how big Canada looks on standard maps, unaware both of the way that its land area is exaggerated by the Mercator projection [ https://substack.com/redirect/71ed15f2-0f03-447f-8140-4a5a621f61d7?j=eyJ1IjoiM3g4b3BsIn0.gTyF7RtVaWrg4_JLvD63hvYzJPuyQCsAk-UibLfp0Ec ] and the fact that much of it is tundra, and thinks, “Real estate!”

Trump also goes on about Canada’s trade surplus with the United States, which he keeps saying is $200 billion a year  — it’s actually less than a third that size. And nobody has offered a coherent justification for his claim that when Canada sells us cheap oil and electricity, we are somehow subsidizing them. Continue reading →

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

Posted March 4^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s now former Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, now in the race to become the federal Liberal Party’s next leader and Canada’s next prime minister

At the Stelco steel mill in Hamilton, Ontario this past Monday, March 3^rd, federal Liberal MP Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s former deputy prime minister and finance minister and (to put my cards on the table, my choice for next Prime Minister of Canada, made clear some of the tough measures she supports and would continue to employ in a tariff war Trump has declared on our country.

If you missed her news conference at the Stelco plant, you can watch it by clicking on the screen immediately below –

Let’s all continue to Stand Up for Canada and stand up against Trump, by buying Canadian and boycotting the United States and its products.

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

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

“Canada will not let this unjustified decision go unanswered. … Effective 12:01 a.m. EST today  (March 4th), Canada will respond with 25 per cent tariffs against $155 billion of American goods – starting with tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods immediately, and tariffs on the remaining $125 billion on American products in 21 days’ time.”                                                                 – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Posted March 4^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Ottawa, Ontario –The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on unjustified U.S. tariffs against Canada:

“Today (this March 4^th, 2025), after a 30-day pause, the United States administration has decided to proceed with imposing 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian exports and 10 per cent tariffs on Canadian energy. Let me be unequivocally clear – there is no justification for these actions.

“While less than 1 per cent of the fentanyl intercepted at the U.S. border comes from Canada, we have worked relentlessly to address this scourge that affects Canadians and Americans alike. We implemented a $1.3 billion border plan with new choppers, boots on the ground, more co-ordination, and increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl. Continue reading →

See The Link For The ‘Do Not Allow Trump To Visit Canada’ Petition Following  Doug Draper’s Foreword Commentary Below 

Posted March 3rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

A computerized depiction of Trump being chased out of Canada by some of our most iconic furry and feathered friends

An online petition is catching fire as it circulates across Canada, asking our federal government to use its powers under the law to bare Donald Trump, the self-proclaimed “King” in the White House, from entering Canada.

The petition was drawn up by Sarah Boston, a fellow Canadian citizen and veterinary surgical oncologist living in Ottawa, with an eye to a summit of G7 leaders, including the President of the United States, scheduled to take place in Alberta Canada this coming June. Continue reading →

“This milestone marks a pivotal moment for Trees for All as we work together to restore vital ecosystems and build climate resilience in the Niagara Peninsula watershed.”                                    – Leilani Lee-Yates,  CAO, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

News from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority in Niagara, Ontario

(Updated) Posted March 5th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) is proud to announce an exciting new phase of its Trees for All program.

With $2.3 million in funding from Natural Resources Canada’s 2 Billion Trees program, NPCA is ready to significantly scale up tree-planting efforts across the Niagara Peninsula watershed, contributing to climate resilience, biodiversity enhancement, and improved watershed health.

Since the program’s initial launch, NPCA and its partners have built a strong foundation for this multi-year environmental initiative. By increasing tree cover and density, the program will expand urban canopy cover, enhance local parks, improve air quality, and provide much-needed shade. Continue reading →

Key to Ford’s win was his insistence Trump’s tariff threat, and not his record, was the most important issue in the provincial election.

A News Commentary from Data Shows, a professional, non-partisan data gathering venue based in Ontario, Canada

Posted March 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Doug Ford successfully bills himself as the strongest one to defend Ontario workers and residents in general against Trump tariffs

Ontario’s unemployment is higher than the national rate. Healthcare is getting worse, schools are in neglect. Terrible housing starts have made life unaffordable. Retail sales are down and people are leaving. Ontario has become a have-not province receiving federal equalization payments.

That’s Doug Ford’s legacy. He should have been defeated on it. But he saved himself by maneuvering away from his record and encouraging anti-PC voters to use their ballot in the most inefficient way. Continue reading →

Following Fourth-Term Election, MPP-Elect Oosterhoff Outlines Key Local Priorities for Niagara

Niagara West Conservative MPP Sam Oosterhoff

A Post-Election Message from the Constituency Office of Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Posted March 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

BEAMSVILLE – Thanking the voters of Niagara West, MPP-Elect Oosterhoff sent a letter this morning, February 28, addressed to Premier Ford outlining a commitment to local priorities in Niagara with the pledge to Protect Ontario.  The text of the letter is included below:

Dear Premier Ford,

Congratulations on once again being entrusted by the voters of our province with a large majority Ontario PC government.  I look forward to working with you and our Ontario PC caucus to deliver on our campaign commitments to Protect Ontario. Continue reading →

Let’s Continue Standing Up For Canada And Our Friends Like Ukraine By Boycotting The  U.S.A.

Putin’s useful idiot Donald Trump gives the free world the finger

A Commentary by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted March 1^st, 2025

If you need any more proof that the United States is giving the finger to Canada and to other free and democratic countries around the world that it once embraced as friends and allies, this past Friday’s February 28^th meeting  Trump and his toady JD Vance staged with  White House guest and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky should be it.

Trump, his face turned from orange to red, yells at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zewensky that he should show him more respect and “be thankful.”

That shit show of a meeting, which drew applause from Putin’s Kremlin – one Kremlin spokesperson praised Trump’ and Vance for their “smack down” of Zelensky, who he referred to on social media as an “insolent pig” – was a stark message to Ukraine, to Canada and to all other freedom-loving countries that have supported Ukraine in battling off a deadly Russian invasion, that America is no longer a friend.

Trump’s America has most certainly given the finger to we Canadians  and to all of America’s other old friends and allies and is now on the side of Putin, brutal dictator deemed by the International Criminal Court to be a war criminal, and other fascist leaders  around the world. Continue reading →

And Now Here We Are, Facing Another Four Years Of What We’ve Had With Ford For The More Than Six Years Gone By

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

Posted February 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch greets jubilant supporters this February 27th after beating his closest rival, Ford candidate and Port Colborne Mayor Bill Steele. photo by Doug Draper

First the good news.

In little more than an hour after the polls closed yesterday (this February 27^th) in Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s 189 million dollar snap election, all three NDP incumbents in Niagara – Jeff Burch in the riding of Niagara Centre, Wayne Gates in the riding of Niagara Falls which includes Niagara-on-the-Lake and Fort Erie, and Jennie Stevens in the riding of St. Catharines – won their seats back.

All of Niagara’s incumbent NDP candidates won back their seats. From lett, Niagara MPPs Jeff Burch (Niagara Centre), Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) and Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines).

In the other provincial riding in our region, Niagara West, NDP candidate Dave Augustyn, as qualified as he is as a former Pelham mayor and Niagara regional councillor to serve in government, was buried in a race against Ford government incumbent Sam Oosterhoff where, for most of that riding’s history, only a Conservative Party candidate can win. Continue reading →

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

A Statement by the Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the results of the provincial election in Ontario

Posted December 27^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the results of the provincial election in Ontario:

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Doug Ford and the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario on their re‑election. Continue reading →

An Election Day Message from Ontario’s Green Party

Posted February 27^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

We’ve done everything we can to stop Doug Ford and fight for a fairer Ontario.

Now it’s up to you.

Today – this Thursday, February 27^th – it’s more important than ever for you to stand up for affordable housing, better access to health care, increased education funding, and stronger environmental protections.

Doug Ford knows that people are frustrated and tired of his leadership and he’s hoping winter driving conditions will stop Ontarians from heading to the polls to vote him out of office. Continue reading →

A Election Day Message from Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

Posted on Election Day Ontario, Thursday, February 27^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

(Niagara At Large has previously posted an election commentary, endorsing the Ontario New Democrats and urging voters not to support another four years of the Ford Government by voting against the Conservative candidate in your riding. A link for that commentary can be found below.)

Ontario’s NDP Leader Marit Stiles

TORONTO – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles encouraged the people of Ontario to head to the polls and vote for an NDP government on their side.

“This election, you can choose a better Ontario – one where people can make ends meet, get a doctor and afford to pay their rent. A place where the future is something to look forward to, not fear.

In tough times like these, you can trust New Democrats to fight rising costs, protect public health care and build more housing. We’ll stand strong for workers and communities. Continue reading →

Town of Fort Erie  Mayor Wayne Redekop

“The adoption of the Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan is a major step forward in our commitment to making Fort Erie a more inclusive and accessible place to live. By investing in these incentive programs, we are working to ensure that individuals and families have access to safe, affordable housing options.” – Mayor Redekop, Fort Erie Mayor

News from the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario

Posted February 25^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A decent affordable home should be a human right

Fort Erie, Ontario – The Town of Fort Erie is proud to announce that Town Council adopted the Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan (AHCIP) on February 10, 2025. This marks a significant milestone in the Town’s ongoing efforts to increase access to affordable housing units for residents.

The implementing by-law was passed by Council on February 24, 2025, and applications for one of the three (3) incentive programs being offered through the AHCIP are open to the public on February 25, 2025. Continue reading →

This Time, Ford Plans To Widen A Stretch Of The QEW Highway Through Niagara North

“Building more roads to prevent congestion is like a fat man loosening his belt to prevent obesity” – the late urban planning specialist Lewis Mumford

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

Posted February 19^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford, a 20th Century highway man.

While Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford was on a campaign stop in Niagara late this January, basking in election endorsements from three area mayors – Niagara Falls’ Jim Diodati,  St. Catharines’ Mat Siscoe and Welland’s Frank Campion – he introduced a plan that deserves far more attention than I believe it received.

That plan, which he pledged to execute if his Conservative government prevails in this Thursday’s February 27 provincial election, is to widen several kilometers of the  Queen Elizabeth Way highway between the Burlington/Hamilton area and St. Catharines for an estimated cost to the province’s taxpayers of $20 billion. Continue reading →

“An industry with such a clear conflict of interest should not be funding education. As a physician and a mother, I am appalled by the fossil fuel industry’s efforts to mislead our children, who are particularly endangered by both disinformation and the health impacts of climate change.”                                                           – Dr. Melissa Lem, a family physician and President of the Canadian Associatin of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE)

A News Release from the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE)

Posted February 25^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ontario — Amid concerns about rising misinformation, disinformation and corporate influence, a new report by the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE) and For Our Kids with support from the Raffi Foundation for Child Honouring reveals that oil and gas companies have funded and supplied misleading climate education to children across Canada.

“Polluting Education: The Influence of Fossil Fuels on Children’s Education in Canada” documents the fossil fuel industry’s extensive influence on climate education for elementary and secondary school students. Continue reading →

A Brief Tribute from Doug Draper

Posted February 25, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Roberta Flack

One after another, and more quickly now than ever, the greatest music artists that came out of the 1960s and 70s are passing away.

This February 14^th it was Grammy Award-winning singer and keyboardist Roberta Flack who became a star around the world in the early 1970s with hits like ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’ and ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song’ on one of the best R&B labels at the time, Atlantic Records.

Here she is with another big hit she performed on in a duet with the late great Donny Hathaway that you can listen to by clicking on the screen immediately below –

RIP Roberta

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

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

“Civility may seem like a simple concept, but it plays a large role in the everyday functioning of society. … Unfortunately, a look around our current society shows incivility all around us.”

News from Brock University in St. Catharines/Niagara

Posted February 25^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario- Canadians may be globally known for their politeness, but Brock University experts say bullying is a prominent issue impacting the nation.

“At least 20 per cent of youth in Canada experience bullying,” Ann Farrell, Assistant Professor of Child and Youth Studies, says. “Compared to other economically advanced countries, Canada continues to rank among the countries with the highest rates of bullying.” Continue reading →

“Instead of making our electricity system more vulnerable to attacks from the U.S., we could be increasing our energy security, creating jobs and lowering our electricity bills by  investing in wind and solar energy and expanding Canada’s east-west electricity grid.”

News from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a non-profit citizens group advocating for clean, renewable sources of energy

Posted February 24^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

The elephant in the room of the current Ontario provincial election is how vulnerable our province’s electricity system has become to the whims of an erratic American president.

As reported in the Toronto Star this February 24^th [https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/we-are-going-in-the-wrong-direction-why-last-year-saw-ontario-burn-a-record/article_7d993266-efb0-11ef-aef4-032f024f6015.html], use of fossil gas for power generation in Ontario has soared since the Ford Government was elected in 2018. Continue reading →

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted February 24^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Three years have now passed since Putin began his all-out illegal military assault on the sovereign nation of Ukraine – an invasion that has so far  resulted in the tragic deaths of hundreds of thousands of soldiers on both sides, including the slaughter of unarmed men, women and children across that war-torn nation.

Even as the new Trump administration in the United States bows to the likes of Putin and seems ready to knife Ukraine in the back, here is hoping that a majority of Canadians will continue supporting Ukraine in any way that we can. Continue reading →

A Brief Foreword from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted February 23rd, 2025

The former U.S, President Jimmy Carter on the site of a Habitat for Humanity project, one of many across the United States and Canada were he volutered his work

Once in a while, when I come across quote from a significant other that seems relevant to the challenges we are facing in our lives and communities today, I hope you don’t mind if I share them with you on this site.

This time the words were spoken some years ago by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who died this past December at age 100.

They are words that perfectly reflect the decency and humanity of the person who spoke them – a person who , in this dark and ugly age of Trump,  is hard to imagine ever resided in the White House.

And, indeed, they are words that speak to the crisis of homelessness and lack of affordable food and housing, the shortage of primary and emergency health care services  and to so many other challenges we face right here in Niagara and other regions of our province and country today.

Here are those words from the late, ever so great Jimmy Carter –

“My concept of human rights has grown to include not only the rights to live in peace, but also to adequate health care, shelter, food and economic opportunities.”

Amen to you Jimmy and  forever Rest in Peace.

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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

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

“Doug Ford knows that people are frustrated and tired of his leadership. That’s why he’s decided to call our first February election in over 140 years. Another winter storm would play right into his hands if everyday Ontarians like you aren’t able to make it to the polls on election day.”                                                        – Green Party of Ontario

An Election Message from the Green Party of Ontaroi

Posted February 20^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Advance polls opened this Tursday, February 2othat 10am!

We have a real plan to change politics in Ontario by electing more strong, independent Green voices to Queen’s Park — and to do that we need to make sure that everyone reading this post has a plan to get out and vote.

Advance polls are open this weekend from Thursday, February 20 to Saturday, February 22. You can use your postal code to find your closest Advance Voting location [here](https://secure.gpo.ca/civicrm/mailing/url?u=208953&qid=118281092).

If you’re able, please consider setting some time aside to vote early and make sure you don’t get caught in election day line-ups, or another winter storm!

Doug Ford knows that people are frustrated and tired of his leadership. That’s why he’s decided to call our first February election in over 140 years. Another winter storm would play right into his hands if everyday Ontarians like you aren’t able to make it to the polls on election day due to weather.

Continue reading →

Illinois Govenor JB Pritzer

“I’m watching with a foreboding dread what is happening in our country right now. … It took the Nazis (in 1930s Germany) one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic. All I’m saying is when the five-alarm fire starts to burn, every good person better be ready to man a post with a bucket of water if you want to stop it from raging out of control.”                          – Illinois Government JB Pritzer, from his February 19th, 2025 State of the State address

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

Posted February 20^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

For those out there who blow off the fears that at least some of have that we may now be witnessing the death of democracy and the rise of Nazi-style fascism unfolding in Donald Trump’s America in real time, I urge you to not only watch, but give serious thought to a segment of a February 19^th address by Illinios Governor JB Pritzer that I have included below.

It underscores the danger that everyday Americans and that we Canadians living right across the border face from this Trump regime.

To hear and watch the governor delivering his words, click on the screen immediately below –

Let’s hope that the millions of Americans who did not vote for Trump heed the governor’s words and fight back for their democracy and for values that show respect for other friendly democracies around the world like Canada.

And here in Canada, in the face of repeated threats from Trump, to take us over by economic force, if not means far worse, we have to continue standing together for our country too.

Finally, please share this post on the governor and his concerns to every American you know!

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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

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

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

Posted February 19^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

I was in a grocery store earlier this February 19^th and saw a good number of my fellow Canadians actively looking for and placing in their shopping carts produce that is made in Canada or some other more friendly country like Mexico or Italy  and leaving anything produced in the U.S.A on the shelves.

At the service desk, I even overheard one  customer say that the store shouldn’t be stocking products from Trump’s United States at all.

On a bitter cold February morning, it was enough to warm my heart to see the number of my fellow citizens using their buying power   against the threats from Trump and his MAGA maniacs to use crippling tariffs and whatever other means they may come up with to take  over or annex our “True North Strong And Free.”  

Let’s Keep It Up!

Let’s keep  doing what we can to deprive Trump’s America of billions of our of shopping and vacationing dollars  because south of the border it is now clear  that money means a hell of a lot more than treating  old friends and allies with a little respect.

‘Oh Canada, Let’s Continue To Stand On Guard For Thee’ by buying local and buying Canadian every chance we can!

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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

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

“Every contribution, whether big or small of our selfless, hard-working volunteers is like a ripple, which when joined with others, creates a momentum-building wave of positive change in our community.” – Andrea Connelly-Miele, the City of St. Catharines’s Community and Events Coordinator

A Callout on Community Members to Nominate Volunteers from the City of St. Catharines

Posted February 19^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The City of St. Catharines is again calling on community members to nominate people in the city who selflessly volunteer their time and talents to the betterment of the community.

Nominations are now open for the City of St. Catharines 37th annual Volunteer Recognition Awards. Individuals and organizations are invited to nominate deserving volunteers who make a difference through their community contributions. Continue reading →

“We need everyone working together to prepare us for whatever the White House throws our way.”                               – David Crombie, a former federal Cabinet Minister and one of the Trillium Declaration advisors

A “Trillium Declaration” released by a Coalition of Prominent Ontarians

Posted February 19^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ontario – With less than a month before potential U.S. tariffs take effect, a group of prominent Ontarians released the Trillium Declaration.

 It outlines eight actions the province can take to help Ontarians weather the impacts of potential U.S. tariffs.

David Crombie

“The White House tariff threat has most Canadians rightly focusing on how governments should use Canadian tariffs to respond to U.S. tariffs. But we also need to plan for what the province can do to directly help Ontarians,” said David Crombie, former federal Cabinet Minister in the Brian Mulroney Government and one of the Trillium Declaration advisors.

“Now is the time to get our own house in order and discuss the provincial policies we need for Ontarians to weather potential tariffs.” Continue reading →

Posted by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

February 19^th, 2025

“I am pessimistic about the human race because it is too ingenious for its own good. Our approach to nature is to beat it into submission. We would stand a better chance of survival if we accommodated ourselves to this planet and viewed it appreciatively, instead of skeptically and dictatorially.”  ― E.B. White, the late American author of such beloved children’s books (also read with joy by adults as ‘Charlotte’s Web’, ‘Stuart Little’ and ‘The Trumpet of the Swan’.

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

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

Whatever Happened to that friend and ally we used to know?

“I’m only going to be dictator on day one” – Donald  Trump, in the weeks  leading up to his January 20th, 2025 inauguration for a second term as President of the United States 

“Decades ago. George Orwell (author of 1984,one of the most powerful books ever written about living in an a fascist state)  suggested that the best one-word description of a Fascist was “bully,”
― Former U.S. Secretary Of State Madelene Albright, from her 2028 book Fascism, A Warning

A Brief Commentary  by Doug Draper 

Posted February 13^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Since Trump’s comeback as America’s Reality TV version of a strongman in the White House, I’ve heard and read so many of my fellow Canadians say on radio phone-ins or in one written venue or another that they have decided – at least for the time being – not to cross the border into the United States.

If or when they are asked why they won’t cross the border, a significant number of them say that they are afraid. 

They say they are that Trump has changed the United States into a place that is  less friendly and may even be more dangerous place for Canadians and other non-Americans to visit. Continue reading →

Meeting, Scheduled For Wednesday, February 19th At 7:15 P.M., Will Focus On The Efforts and Environmental And Health Benefits Of Restoring Protecting And Preserving Trees In Niagara

importance of tree

An Invited to All from the Niagara District Council Of Women

Posted February 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – On Wednesday February 19th at 7:15 p.m. the Niagara District Council of Women Public   Zoom meeting will feature  a panel of speakers who will bring the “PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE”   of Niagara’s Trees  to life! 

First, Dr. John Bacher (PhD)  author of  2 Billion Trees and Counting –the Legacy of Edmond Zavitz, will  bring to light  the  exciting  history of Niagara’s  trees , such as  the richness  of our forests, tied to Niagara’s geology, the destructive impact of pioneers, and the importance of fruit growers in changing  public attitudes. Continue reading →

An Open Letter to Ontario Premier Doug Ford from Niagara Resident Brigitte Bonner

Posted February 18th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Dear Mr. Ford,

I received a text from you and all you wrote about were US tariffs.  That’s all you ever talk about.  Don’t you know you’re not the Prime Minister?

Instead of trying to be PM, why don’t you deal with some of the real problems Ontarians are facing?

Stop trying to privatize our health system.  Put some of the money you are holding back into our public health system, instead of giving it to rich private providers.

Quit destroying our environment. We don’t need more highways or larger bridges. Continue reading →

“We don’t need to choose between affordable homes and protecting our environment.”

An Election Message from Ontario’s Green Party

Posted February 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Do we really have to keep sprawling over what is left of our croplands , grasslands, woodlands and wetlands to solve Ontario’s housing problem when studies show there is enough land for housing within existing urban boundaries.

In this (February 14th’s) Northern Leaders’ Debate, when we drew attention to Doug Ford’s dismal housing record he deflected by trying to tell us that we “wouldn’t cut down a dandelion to put a shovel in the ground.”

And it’s time we set the record straight.

We don’t need to choose between affordable homes and protecting our environment. Our plan will do both. Here’s how: Continue reading →

And Let’s Continue to Buy Local & Buy ‘Made In Canada’ Whenever & Whereever We Can!

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

Posted February 14^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

This Saturday, February 15^th is Flag Day, celebrating the first time, 60 years ago, that Canadians saw our brand new red and white maple leaf flag rise on flag poles across the country.

On this Flag Day, when our Canada has never been so under attack from our “friends” south of the border since the War of 1812 (unless you want to count the Fenian Raids which saw a number of skirmishes between rogue bands of Americans and Canadian defenders in the Fort Erie area following the American Civil War of the 1860s), it is more important than ever that we show our flag with pride and let the Orange Monster to the south know that we want nothing to do with his dream of turning Canada into a 51^st state. Continue reading →

A Large Majority Of Canadians Are  Now Buying ‘Made In Canada’ And More Than Half Are Also Cancelling Travel To U.S. – National Poll Shows

A National Poll from Leger Canada, a major polling service based in Canada and the United States

Posted February 13^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – If there are some silver linings behind all of the recent hostility Trump’s America has aimed at Canada, it is the way Canadians have come together to buy ‘Made In Canada’ and to push aside products made in the United States and any and all plans to take day trips or vacations in the United States.

The way we have come together in the face of such hostility from Trumpland has made me as proud to be a Canadian as I was as a little kid when our country raised its new flag for the first time and when, in 1967, we invited the world to our country to attend a grand, 100^th anniversary of confederation fair called Expo 67.

Now here are the highlights from a recent poll conducted by Leger Canada –  

The following is from a Leger survey of Canadians, living coast to coast and taken from February 7^th to February 10^th, 2025, in the wake of Trump’s threats to slap crippling tariffs on Canada while, at the same time, threatening to take over Canada by “economic force.” 

Highlights include…

Continue reading →

“It’s time to focus on what people in our communities need.”

An Election Message from Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner

Posted February 12^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner

Earlier (this February 12^th, 2025) , I shared our [2025 Election Platform](https://secure.gpo.ca/civicrm/mailing/url?u=207914&qid=115618450) alongside our Deputy Leaders Aislinn Clancy, Matt Richter, and an incredible group of our candidates from across the province.

We’re the first party to release a fully-costed platform ahead of this snap election and I’m inspired by how much is actually possible when we put our heads together and get to work. Continue reading →

An Election Message from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a non-partisan, not-for-profit citizens group advocating for a cleaner, green Ontario

Posted February 12^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

In response to  our provincial election questionnaire [https://www.cleanairalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-OCAA-Provincial-Election-Questionnaire.pdf], the Ontario NDP, the Ontario Liberal Party and the Green Party of Ontario are calling for the phase-out of gas-fired electricity generation.

The Ontario PC Party has not responded to our questionnaire.

According to the Ontario NDP: “We support the phase-out of carbon-emitting gas-fired generation as soon as feasible, and see no justification for the Ford government’s short-sighted decision to expand gas power when other alternatives exist to keep Ontario’s lights on reliably and affordably.” Continue reading →

Let’s Keep Standing Together By Boycotting ‘Made In The U.S.A.’ & By Cancelling All Visits To The U.S.A.

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted February 11th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

As a Canadian, I could not be prouder at all of the news that growing numbers of my fellow citizens are responding to Trump’s threats of waging a trade war and of taking over our country  by force by buying as many ‘Made In Canada’ products as we can, by boycotting produces ‘Made In The U.S.A. and  by cancelling day trips and vacations to the United States. 

Some Canadian “snowbirds” are even selling their properties in the southern United States!

The bully in the White House has unleashed a movement that, out of his own stupidity and ignorance of how much most Canadians care for their country,  he   may not have seen here coming – a movement I hope continues to grow until  it hurts business in his country so much that he has no choice but to back off. Continue reading →

“I’m honoured to have the endorsement of ATU Canada, representing 21,000 transit workers across Ontario. These workers are vital to our economy, our communities and to the future of our province. Millions of people rely on ATU members to get to work and school every single day.”                                             – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles and her party receive key election endorsement from public transit workers across the province

An Election Message from the New Democratic Party of Ontario

Posted February 11th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Marit Stiles has welcomed the endorsement of Amalgamated Transit Union Canada President John Di Nino and commits to improving public transit to make it more convenient, reliable and safe for transit workers and transit riders alike. Continue reading →

“There’s no faster way to end a trade attack than with a strong fightback. That’s why I want dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs in place urgently (and) a 100 per cent tariff on Elon Musk’s Teslas.”

A Statement from Canada’s Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh

Posted February 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

This February 10th, Trump signed America’s declaration of a steel and aluminum trade war against Canada

Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has issued the following statement in response to Donald Trump’s implementation of tariffs on steel and aluminum:

“Donald Trump has unleashed a trade war on Canada and our workers. We can’t let it go unanswered, and we can’t let working Canadians pay the price for Trump’s attack.

Continue reading →

“As Premier, I will open a fully staffed and full-service hospital in Welland that has a 24-7 emergency department and I’ll restore services to both the Port Colborne Urgent Care Centre and the Fort Erie Urgent Care Centre.” – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

Ontario’s NDP Leader Marit Stiles

An Election Message from Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Niagara members of her party’s caucus

Posted February 10^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

PORT COLBORNE, Niagara  – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles was joined by the NDP’s Niagara team of incumbents, Jeff Burch (Niagara Centre), Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) and Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines), and Niagara West NDP candidate Dave Augustyn  to announce her plan to restore services to Port Colborne Urgent Care Centre, Fort Erie Urgent Care Centre and the Welland Hospital. Continue reading →

Something Good & Kind That We Can All Do During Less Than The Best Of Times

A Brief Message from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted February 10^th, 2025

I usually don’t plug charity drives run through big chain stores as I am checking out at the cash register.

You may know the kind of charity fundraisers I mean – the ones where after the cashier totals up purchases he or she says; ‘Would you like to donate x many dollars to this or that cause.’

But being the animal lover that I am, I can’t help giving a shout-out to this one.

At a Sobeys grocery store, located on Glendale Avenue, just a block or so east of Hwy 406 in St. Catharines, the store is partnering with an animal assistance group called Travelling Tails K9 Rescue that works to look after and find “forever homes” for orphaned dogs that have been rescued from situations that, one way or another, were not making for a long and happy life. Continue reading →

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

Posted February 8^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A file photo of the Peace Bridge crossing between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, New York – typically one of the busiest border crossings between Canada and the United States. Thanks to Trump and company, it may not be very busy any more

Typically, on a Saturday morning at the Peace Bridge –  even on the coldest of winter days  – there are hundreds of vehicles from Canada at any one time, lined up to enter the U.S.A.

But on this February 8^th Saturday morning, I clicked on the online camera on the American side of the bridge several times between 9 and 11 a.m. and there was barely a trickle of cars and trucks heading in to Trump’s America.

Here is a representative still of what that bridge camera was showing –

On a Saturday morning, you would usually see vehicles in six or more lines, backed up to near the bottom of this screen waiting to cross.

It was a sight to be behold that appears to be confirming numerous reports in the media and a lot of conversations I’ve been having with my fellow Canadians that with Trump declaring a trade war against our country, and with him making continuous comments about wanting to turn our country into a “51^st state” of his America, they no longer want to cross the border.

Trump threatens takeover of Canada

On radio phone-in programs and other venues, many  have said they are now afraid to cross the border with all of the ugly talk and behaviour over there.

That is too bad for stores and restaurants in the Western New York area that enjoy our business. But if they don’t like it – if they are feeling a bit of pain in the pocket book- let them go and complain the the orange monster in the White House.

Meanwhile, let’s keep standing up together for Canada by shopping local and buying as much Made in Canada  goods as possible and by Boycotting Made in the U.S.A.

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

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

“Canada should become our Cherished 51st State.”           – a statement uttered by U.S. President Donald Trump, time and time again as he threatens Canadians with a tariff war

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

Posted February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Just a few weeks ago, Canada sent water bombers down to California to help put out wildfires, and declaring a tariff war on our country and threatening to take us over is the thanks we get.

America’s Dear Leader, Donald Trump, may have put a a “pause” on the crippling tariffs he wants to slap on Canada, but that may be no more than a temporary ceasefire in an ongoing war his country has declared against ours.

With that, it is great to read and hear report after news report that we Canadians are going out of our way to purchase everything we can from groceries to appliances and other products that are Made in Canada, and that if we can’t find what we want and need from our own country, at least purchase products  from countries in Europe and elsewhere that are friendly to us. Continue reading →

This Piece Is Meant To Serve As A Little Break, Or An Escape If You Will, From So Much Of The Unhappy News (As Much As We Need To Know It) That Is Bombarding Our Lives These Days

A Brief One for a little fun from Doug Draper

Posted February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

The Beatles’ first live appearance on North American television, February, 1964

It was 61 years ago this February 7^th that The Beatles first landed North America soil.

Two days later, on February 9^th, 1964, they gave their first performance on this continent on the well-watched Ed Sullivan Show before an audience of more than 70 million viewers  – the largest number of people, according to many reports, who tuned into any single television broadcast up to that time.

The rest, as they say, is musical history, sparked by a group that, remarkably, is still drawing young fans today.

Continue reading →

While U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canadian goods may lead to the removal of U.S. alcohol from local shelves, wine lovers needn’t worry. … Here in Niagara, wineries are producing some of the best wines in the world.”

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

photo courtesy of Brock University

Niagara, Ontario – As Canadians embrace the “buy local” movement in response to now-paused U.S. tariffs, experts in Ontario’s grape and wine industry are reminding consumers of the top-shelf products available in their own backyards.

The growing swell to support Canadian businesses represents an opportunity to further highlight the world-class wines produced in the province and their impact, says Debbie Inglis, Director of Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI).

The CCOVI Researcher and Professor of Biological Sciences says Ontario wines, along with those produced in other provinces are a boon for the Canadian economy. Continue reading →

“People with disabilities are dying in this province because Doug Ford has neglected to provide the basics.” – Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie.

An Election Message from Ontario’s Liberal Party

Posted February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario’s Liberals would make life more affordable for people with disabilities, by permanently doubling the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) benefits.

“People with disabilities are dying in this province because Doug Ford has neglected to provide the basics,” said Bonnie Crombie. “ODSP rates are so low that people are forced to live in poverty, and rely on food banks just to get by. It’s unacceptable.” Continue reading →

“Ontario’s New Democrats will protect renters in this housing crisis. We’ll bring in real rent control, we’ll crack down on bad actors, and we’ll build more homes that people can afford.”           – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

An Election Message from Ontario New Democratic Party

Posted February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles says the NDP will protect and support renters with her plan to give the millions of Ontario families that rent more security in their homes. This is part of the NDP’s comprehensive Homes Ontario plan — the largest home building plan in Ontario history.

“After seven years of Doug Ford, rent is higher than ever. It’s the biggest expense in your family’s budget and it’s only getting worse. And every renter is worried that unfair rent hikes and renovictions could push them out of their homes, and finding a new place is unaffordable.” Continue reading →

“Ontarians need a government they can trust to invest wisely in our future. Not one that wastes billions of taxpayers’ dollars building spas and highways in the GTA while people across the province can’t find a family doctor and are struggling to put food on the table.” – Green Party of Ontario

An Election Message from Jon Irwin, Finance Manager for Ontario’s Green Party

Posted February 6th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

As the Ontario Greens’ Finance Manager, I spend a lot of time looking at the numbers. And no matter how hard I try, I can’t make Doug Ford’s line up.

Doug Ford says he needs a new mandate to spend billions of dollars so that Ontario can fight back against Trump’s tariff threats.

But, he didn’t need a new mandate to try and sell the Greenbelt to his rich developer friends.

Continue reading →

Ford’s Conservatives want to  ‘spend billions of dollars to build new nuclear reactors and north-south transmission lines to export more power to the United States.’

“Even without tariffs and the economic damage the Trump administration seems determined to do to Ontario, these projects make little economic sense.”

A Call-Out from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a non-profit citizens group advocating for clean, renewable sources of energy across our province

Posted February 6^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

To most Ontarians, this probably doesn’t seem like a good time to be spending billions of dollars on expanding our ability to send power to the United States.

Yet that is exactly what the Government of Ontario wants us to do. They want to  spend billions of dollars to build new nuclear reactors and north-south transmission lines to export more power to the United States [https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1005542/ontario-building-fortress-am-can-to-power-economic-prosperity-in-canada-and-the-united-states]. Continue reading →

Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie calls on the Conservatives to come clean on the costly early election

An Election Message from Ontario’s Liberal Party

Posted February 5^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Liberal Party Leader Bonnie Crombie

Bonnie Crombie, Leader of Ontario’s Liberals, called on Doug Ford (this February 4^th) to come clean to the people of Ontario about his real reasons for calling a $189-million election a year and a half before the province’s scheduled election date.

“(This past Monday, February 3rd), Doug Ford lost his excuse for this election (when Trump put at least a  30-day “pause” on slapping crippling trade tariffs on Canadian goods crossing the border to the United States).

Now, he needs to tell the people of Ontario what this election is really about.

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“I will end chronic homelessness and make encampments a thing of the past (by taking” a housing first approach.” – Marit Stiles, Leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party

An Election Message from Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles and her party

Posted February 5^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

TORONTO – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles announced a plan to end encampments and tackle chronic homelessness in Ontario.

“After seven long years, Doug Ford’s legacy is encampments in every single town and city in our province. Seeing tents in parks is a stark reminder of how utterly Ford has failed Ontario – on housing, health care, creating good jobs, and making life more affordable.

“As Premier, I will end chronic homelessness and make encampments a thing of the past. We will take a housing-first approach, put a roof over people’s heads, and connect them with the supports they need.” Continue reading →