Category Archives: Uncategorized

Long-Time Environmental Activist Maude Barlow Among Those To Be Honored

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted May 30^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

When Brock University’s newest graduates gather to mark their accomplishments next month, they’ll be ushered into this new chapter of their lives by the inspiring words of an environmental activist, an accessibility champion and a baseball legend.

As part of Brock’s 115th Convocation celebrations from June 10 to 14, the University will bestow honorary doctorates upon Maude Barlow, Tricia Pokorny (BA ’95) and Ferguson “Fergie” Jenkins, who will each then deliver an address to the graduating class.

Continue reading →

“With our comfortable buses, affordable prices, and multiple stops, we are confident that FlixBus will become the go-to choice for travelers between these two popular destinations.”

News from FlixBus Inc. and Greyhound Lines, Inc

Posted May 30^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

North America’s fastest-growing intercity bus service, is expanding service between Toronto and Niagara Falls.

Starting Thursday, May 30, 2024, customers can take advantage of up to 19 routes per day with multiple stops in the Toronto area, including Union Station, Scarborough, Mississauga, and Pearson International Airport.

This expansion comes as a response to the high demand for affordable and convenient transportation options between Toronto and Niagara Falls. With FlixBus, travelers can now easily explore the beauty of Niagara Falls and its surrounding areas without the hassle of driving or the high cost of other transportation methods. Continue reading →

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

Posted May 29^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Up until recently, construction of the South Niagara Hospital Project has largely taken place below ground.

That all changed this month as crews started to work on the superstructure, the part of the building that is built above the foundation level.

An aerial shot of the South Niagara Hospital on the rise in the southwest end of Niagara Falls, Ontario. Photo courtesy of Niagara Health System

At its deepest point, the South Niagara Hospital basement floor is five metres below ground level. Steel piles hammered into the bedrock to support the building foundation extend an additional 18 metres below that. About 75 per cent of underground work has been completed, including stormwater and sanitary sewers, waterlines, and electrical. Continue reading →

Attend A Free Webinar – Thursday, June 6 at 7:00 P.M. – Put On By The Alliance for a Liveable Ontario, Of Which Ontario Nature Is A Member

A Call-Out to All of Us from Ontario Nature, a non-profit citizens organization dedicated to protecting and preserving what is left of Ontario’s natural heritage

Posted May 29th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

When is the urban sprawl over what is left of our life-sustaining food-growing lands and green places for other living creatures going to end?

The housing crisis will not be solved by sprawl that removes Ontario’s precious natural areas and farmland.

That is why Ontario Nature is a member of the Alliance for a Liveable Ontario  (ALO), which represents more than 130 groups and over 900 individual members.

The cross-sector alliance includes representation from agriculture, urban planning, environment, housing affordability, labour, academia and businesses. Continue reading →

“This isn’t just about books – it’s about the future of our communities.”                                                                                          – Wayne Gates, MPP for Niagara Falls Riding

NDP MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) issued the following statement at Queen’s Park

Posted May 28^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) issued the following statement today (https://x.com/Wayne_Gates/status/1795120896249618540) regarding the recent closure of the library branch in Chippawa:

“The closure of the Chippawa library branch is a significant loss for our community.

A library is more than just a place to borrow books; it is a community hub, a place of learning, and a safe space for all. The burden on local municipalities and library boards has grown significantly. This is largely because the public libraries operating grant has not been increased by the provincial government in over 25 years. Continue reading →

Wednesday, June 5, 2024, 6:OO PM at Club Roma          in St. Catharines

An Invite from Pride Niagara

Posted May 28^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Pride Niagara is happy to announce the 11th Annual 2024 Niagara UNITY Awards Presented by TD!<https://www.facebook.com/events/1567292370837320>

This gala celebrates the important successes of individuals, municipal organizations and businesses that have made an impact on our 2SLGBTQ+ community here in the Niagara Region! Continue reading →

News from the Niagara Transit Commission in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 28^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper – For all of us who care about building healthier, more livable communities,  and who are concerned about climate change, building a transit system that is affordable and accessible to all, and where we can leave the cars and trucks clogging our roads behind,  is one significant way of doing it.

Here is an opportunity to have our say in shaping the future of transit in Niagara and in shaping a better future for present and future generations in our community. We should all take advantage of it.) 

Niagara, Ontario – The Niagara Transit Commission (NTC) is thrilled to extend an invitation to the public, community organizations, and stakeholders from both public and private sectors to actively participate in shaping the future of transit in the Niagara Region.

Two Key Projects for a Better Transit System

 Facilities, Strategic Asset, and Service Network Master Plan – NTC has initiated the Facilities, Strategic Asset, and Service Network Master Plan, led by the consulting firm LTRT Inc. This project aims to optimize infrastructure, service routes, and operational strategies to meet the needs of our communities better. Continue reading →

“The walls are closing in for this government. One way or another, the truth about Ford’s Greenbelt dealings is coming out of the backrooms and into the light.”                      – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

A Statement from Ontario NDP Official Opposition Party Leader Marit Stiles

Posted May 27^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

QUEEN’S PARK – Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition NDP, released the following statement after the Information and Privacy Commissioner (IPC) confirmed she will be publishing a special report into the Ford government’s handling of documents and records related to the Greenbelt.

“The NDP welcomes this special report. We have been deeply concerned by revelations of deleted emails, the use of personal accounts, and other apparent attempts to cover-up the government’s actions as it schemed to give preferential treatment to well-connected Greenbelt speculators.

“This report will provide a clearer understanding of the government’s conduct.

Continue reading →

“Doug Ford’s government is now transferring more than a billion dollars of our public money each year away from our public non-profit health care over to private for-profit interests like for-profit clinics and hospitals, for-profit staffing agencies, for-profit long-term care chains, and so on.” – Natalie Mehra, Executive Director, Ontario Health Coalition

From a recent speech by Natalie Mehra, Executive Director, Ontario Health Coalition, a non-profit citizens coalition dedicated to protecting and preserving quality public health care across Ontario

Posted May 27^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

“There comes a time when one cannot sit on the sidelines and let it happen. When conscience and community compel one to action. I believe we are there.

“It is like we have reached a tipping point. If we do nothing, we accept the ever accelerating destruction of the public health care it took generations of Canadians to build.

“If we do nothing, we accept that our society will suffer the extremes of wealth and poverty, the final destruction of the middle class and ever-increasing inequity. We accept that more people will suffer and die without needed care, or lose their livelihoods to pay for medical bills, and to add insult to injury, we will pay for _more_ for less, just as they do in the U.S. and other systems of private health care. Continue reading →

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley,

“The Niagara Biennial Design Awards are a testament to the creativity and talent present in our region. By celebrating design excellence, these awards not only honor the achievements of our local designers and artists but also inspire future innovation and collaboration. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant Niagara through the power of great design, growing better together.” – Jim Bradley, Regional Chair

A Call-Out to All from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted May 25^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario –The Niagara Biennial Design Awards are now open for nominations until Aug. 2, 2024.

Established in 2020, the  Niagara Biennial Design Awards [https://niagaracanada.com/services/niagara-biennial-awards/] highlight exemplary design solutions across Niagara’s diverse built environments.

From architects to artists, engineers to interior designers, the Niagara Biennial Design Awards recognize the vital contributions of creative individuals and teams who shape our region’s identity and economy. Continue reading →

“I applaud the province for this significant investment for the expansion of Fitch Street Public School. This expansion will provide the facilities students require and deserve and create a healthy learning environment.”                                                               – Frank Campion, Mayor of the City of Welland

News from the Constituency Office of Ontario Ford Government MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Posted May 25^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

WELLAND, Ontario – The Ontario government is investing $15.4 million in the District School Board of Niagara to expand Fitch Street Public School in Welland, supporting local working families.

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West, joins Sue Barnett, Chair of the District School Board of Niagara; Alex Bradnam, Vice-Chair of the District School Board of Niagara, and Frank Campion, Mayor of the City of Welland, along with local students at Fitch Street Public School in Welland

This investment will support the creation of 205 student spaces and forty-nine licensed child care spaces as part of the government’s commitment to building state-of-the-art learning spaces for Ontario students.

“This funding to expand Fitch Street Public School in Welland is great news for Niagara,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West. Continue reading →

“Medications like contraceptives and insulin are too expensive. That’s why we’re covering the cost. By launching the first phase of universal pharmacare, we’re making sure Canadians get the care they need, when they need it, and without worrying about the bill. That’s what fairness is all about.”                                                 – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

A News Release from Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his governing Liberals

Posted May 25^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Everyone deserves a fair, healthy future. But today, for many Canadians, our provincial and territorial health care systems are under strain.

One of the biggest pressures right now is affordable medication. The medications many Canadians need are often too expensive, leading to fewer visits to pharmacies, less treatment, and more frequent health scares. The cost of contraceptives, and medications for those who are diabetic, is one of the largest barriers to access.

We’re making sure Canadians get the medication that they need, when they need it. Continue reading →

Governments investing an additional $1 million to help beekeepers improve their operations

News From: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Posted May 23, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ontario – The governments of Canada and Ontario are increasing funding to the Honey Bee Health Initiative by up to $1 million to help improve the resiliency and competitiveness of beekeeper operations in Ontario.

The additional funding will help more Ontario beekeepers better protect their colonies over the winter and protect against invasive pests such as varroa mites which pose a serious threat to honey bee health. Continue reading →

    – The total solar eclipse in Niagara Falls generated over 45,000 unique pieces of media coverage with an estimated value of $5.7 billion worldwide

    – Niagara Parks hosted live broadcasts from all major Canadian television networks on-site for the celestial event along with journalists from leading publications, including The New York Times and Globe and Mail

News from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission

Posted May 23^rd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls, ONTARIO – The total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, resulted in an astounding 45,000 unique media stories, generating over 33 billion impressions and an estimated $5.7 billion in advertising value equivalency (AVE) for Niagara Falls.

The unprecedented volume of coverage was monitored and analyzed by Niagara Parks’ contracted media monitoring agency Agility PR, spanning the period of January 30 to April 10, 2024. Continue reading →

Join Your Fellow Citizens at a Meeting hosted by Pelham Advocates for Trees and Habitat (PATH) on Thursday, May 23, starting 7 PM at  the Meridian Community Centre in Fonthill/Niagara

See Details in the Poster Below

For More On Pelham PATH and its conservation efforts, click on – https://www.pelhampath.ca/ Posted May 22^nd, 2025 on 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

Statement from Phil Pothen, Land Use and Land Development program manager for Environmental Defence

Posted May 22^nd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Toronto– The Ontario government’s latest attempt to kneecap efforts to build more homes in neighbourhoods  – and supercharge suburban sprawl – is so extreme that even some long-time opponents of density are joining the opposition.

It should be no surprise to anyone that environmental NGOs (non-profit, non-government organizations) , farming organizations and housing supply advocates are united in opposition to Bill 185 and the new Provincial Planning Statement.

These new laws are intended to kill Ontario’s “smart growth” city planning system, abandoning efforts to make towns and cities build housing within existing built up areas and protect non-Greenbelt farmland and wildlife habitat from suburban sprawl.  Continue reading →

Fundraiser Starts At 7 PM on Thursday, May 23, at the Fine Grind Cafe on 37 James St. in St. Catharines, Ontario

An Invite to All from the Niagara Palestinian Coalition

Posted May 22, 2024 on Niagara At Large

ST. CATHARINES, ON – Two doctors who treated patients in Gaza, including one from St. Catharines, and who are trying to go back to Gaza, will be speaking at a cultural fundraiser, hosted by the Niagara Gaza Relief Foundation of the Niagara Palestine Coalition (NPC) to help local families save their relatives in Gaza.

Dr. Saif Ullah of St. Catharines volunteered at the Gaza European Hospital in April and has been trying to return but cannot because of the Israeli invasion of Rafah. Also speaking will be Dr. Mohammad Rizwan Minhas who served in a makeshift emergency room in Gaza. Both doctors were in Gaza as part of Humanity Auxillium, a charity serving patients around the world. Continue reading →

Enjoy a free workshop with Master Gardener Mary-Lynn Hopper at 1:00 on Thursday May 23rd followed by a complimentary guided tour of our Medicinal Herb Garden.

An Invite to All from Canada Bee Line, 758 Niagara Stone Road, Niagara-On-The-Lake.

Posted May 21^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Learn about the importance of native plants for pollinators, and how to introduce them into your garden.

Mary-Lyn is a lifelong gardener and environmentalist.  As a Master Gardener she will share her knowledge of science based gardening and the use of native plants in urban settings. 

Six years ago she moved into a house with few gardens and has transformed that landscape with both native and non-invasive trees and perennials, having added more that 100 varieties of native plants. Through the process she has acquired a broad understanding of the rewards and challenges of adding native plants to home landscapes.

If you have not already done so, please register for this workshop here: https://www.applehillapothecary.com/events

This event is free of charge.

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

Message to Ford Government – “Here is an opportunity to build affordable housing served on a silver platter.”                                      – St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

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

Posted May 16^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

QUEEN’S PARK – During Question Period, MPP Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines) amplified the priority of affordable housing support from representatives from the Niagara Regions visit to Queen’s Park this week (of May 13th to 17th).

“The Niagara Region is seeking a provincial partnership, ensuring we get people off the streets, out of encampments and into safe, stable homes” said Stevens.

“The heartbreaking reality is that right now private developers are not building non-market housing on their own – it only happens when governments make it a priority.” Continue reading →

Gas consumers will not benefit from Doug Ford’s ‘Keeping Energy Costs Down Act.’ Enbridge Gas and subdivision developers will.

A News Release from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance – a citizen’s advocate for a healthier environment

Posted May 16^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

This May 15th, 2024, the Ford Government passed its Protecting Enbridge Gas Profits Act. Sorry, in official government doublespeak, that’s the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act aka Bill 165.

Of course, in stark contrast to its name, this new law will raise energy costs by ensuring that all gas consumers will pay for expanding the Enbridge Gas distribution system. Reinstating this subsidy for new methane gas hookups for developers will cost over $1 billion over the next 4 years alone. Continue reading →

“After being forced to walk back his Greenbelt plan, Ford continues to seek out new ways to impose expensive sprawl development where it doesn’t belong in communities that don’t want it”.

From the Green Party of Ontario

Posted May 16^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Every day, Ontario loses 319 acres of farmland to urban sprawl and other uses.

With less than five percent of the province classified as prime agricultural land, you’d think that losing the equivalent of 365 family farms a year would be cause for alarm.

You’d think that your provincial government would be taking urgent action to protect the farmland we have left. Continue reading →

“The provincial government has chosen to prioritize Enbridge’s profits over the people of Ontario. It’s shameful.”                             – Environmental Defence 

A Statement on Ontario’s Passage of Bill 165 – Doug Ford Government’s So-Called  “Keeping Energy Costs Down Act”

Statement from Keith Brooks, Programs Director for the Canada-wide citizens organization, Evironmental Defence

Posted May 15^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ontario – Bill 165, the so-called Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, is an affront to good governance and an insult to Ontarians who are grappling with an affordability crisis.

Contrary to the Bill’s ironic name, this piece of legislation will raise energy costs for nearly 4 million households in Ontario and saddle new home buyers with higher energy costs by making gas heating the default, instead of nudging home builders to install highly efficient heat pumps.

The move to overrule the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) and concentrate decision making power in the hands of the Minister is irresponsible and could have far-reaching consequences, leading to significant costs, all of which will be borne by Ontarians.

Continue reading →

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley,

“This investment will drive economic growth and environmental stewardship for generations to come, acting as a catalyst for future prosperity across the region.”
– Jim Bradley, Regional Chair, Niagara Region

“I am so thrilled to welcome Asahi Kasei as we celebrate this tremendous investment in Port Colborne and Niagara. … This investment is transformational for our region and I want to extend my sincere congratulations and appreciation to everyone involved in bringing it to fruition.” 
 – William Steele, Mayor, City of Port Colborne

Niagara Centre Liberal MP Vance Badawey

“Niagara has long been a leader in the auto sector. This investment will continue that long standing tradition which will be an engine to economic prosperity, creating good-paying jobs right here in Niagara.”                                                  – Vance Badawey, Liberal MP for the Niagara Centre Riding which includes the City of Port Colborne

“This is a major win for the residents of Port Colborne and all of Niagara. This is something we can all be proud of. Not only will this approximately $1.6 billion investment generate countless good-paying jobs, it will position Port Colborne and the Niagara Region as a key player in the green economy of the future.”                    – Jeff Burch, NDP MPP for the Niagara Centre Riding which includes the City of Port Colborne

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted May 15^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Ontario – This Tuesday, May 14th, the Government of Canada, Province of Ontario, Niagara Region, City of Port Colborne, St. Lawrence Seaway Management and other private sector partners came together to welcome Asahi Kasei to announce a $1.56 billion investment in the lithium-ion battery supply chain in Ontario.

The announcement marks a significant milestone in Niagara region’s economic development as Asahi Kasei’s new wet-process separator manufacturing facility will undoubtedly shape Niagara’s local economy for years to come. In addition, this investment represents the culmination of collaboration and partnership between the federal, provincial and municipal governments at both the region and city.  Continue reading →

“Canada bet big on electric vehicles, and today, the biggest manufacturers in the world are building them right here in Canada. Asahi Kasei’s investment is another vote of confidence in our auto industry and auto workers. We’re creating good-paying jobs, keeping the air clean, and putting Canada at the forefront of this exciting opportunity.” – Justin Trudeau
Prime Minister of Canada

A News Release from the Governments of Canada and Ontario

Posted May 14^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford to his right, announces new EV battery plant in Port Colborne this May 14th

PORT COLBORNE in Niagara, Ontario — Canada is a global leader in the electric vehicle (EV) market. As demand for EVs continues to grow, we want more of these vehicles to be assembled right here in Canada. In the last four years, more than $46 billion has been invested by auto, EV battery, and battery component manufacturers across the country, with billions more in the pipeline.

These global companies want a reliable partner with world-class talent, and this is exactly what we have to offer.

Today (this May 14th, 2024), the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and the Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, are welcoming Asahi Kasei Corporation’s investment of approximately $1.6 billion to build an EV battery separator plant in Port Colborne, Ontario.

As medium-to long-term growth is forecasted in the North American EV market, the company expects to make additional multi-billion-dollar investments through multiple phases. Details regarding direct jobs created by this investment are currently being finalized and will be announced at a later date. Continue reading →

“Alan Unwin’s legacy of service and advocacy has left an indelible mark on the fabric of our community, inspiring myself and hopefully others to follow in his footsteps and continue the important work he started.”                                                                         – St. Catharines MayorMayor Mat Siscoe

Mayor Siscoe Releases Statement Regarding Passing of former Mayor, Alan Unwin

May 14th, 2024, on Niagara At Large

Former St. Catharines Mayor Al Unwin

St. Catharines, Ontario –It is with deep sadness that we received news of the passing of former Mayor of St. Catharines, Alan Unwin.

Unwin’s unwavering commitment to serving the public was evident throughout his career, from his position as Principal of Carlton School and Ferndale School in St. Catharines to his leadership of the St. Catharines Transit Commission in the mid-1980s.

His dedication to the community was further showcased when he successfully campaigned for Mayor in late 1994, emerging victorious among nine other candidates in a fiercely competitive election. Unwin’s influence stretched beyond the local sphere, as he took on the role of chairman for the Ontario Urban Mayors Caucus in 1997, playing a key part in discussions with the provincial government of Mike Harris regarding service cost distribution. Continue reading →

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

Posted May 13^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK – MPP Wayne Gates, NDP Official Opposition critic for Long-Term care, vows to keep up the fight for a caregiver benefit in Ontario, after Ford’s Conservatives voted down a motion that would make it happen.

“Since introducing my caregiver benefit motion, my phone has been ringing nonstop from people around the province, including some of the 3.3 million Ontarians who self-report as caregivers, voicing support for this motion,” said Gates. Continue reading →

“In recent months, we’ve seen a disturbing rise in antisemitism across the world, including right here in Canada. This must not continue. Whether it’s at a synagogue or a Jewish business or school; whether it’s wearing the Star of David or a Kippah – Jewish Canadians deserve to feel safe, supported, and welcomed.”

A Statement from Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Posted May 13^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

“Today (this May 13^th), we join Israelis, Jewish communities, and others across Canada and around the world to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel. 

“In 1948, Canada was among the first countries to recognize Israel’s independence, later establishing diplomatic relations in 1949. In the 75 years since, our countries have forged a close friendship and strong bilateral relationship, anchored in deep people-to-people ties. Continue reading →

“The news that Niagara’s drinking water is once again proven to be among the best in Ontario is a wonderful way to cap off national Drinking Water Week.” – Phill Lambert, Acting Director, Water-Wastewater Services.

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

May 13th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Region’s six water treatment facilities have obtained a 100 per cent rating from the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (the Ministry) during their inspections for the period of 2022-2023.

A 100 per cent rating demonstrates Niagara Region’s commitment to going above and beyond the multi-barrier, health-based drinking water quality standards mandated by the province. Continue reading →

“Thank you to the citizens and municipal leaders in Halton Hills, Thorold and Loyalist Township for voting against gas plants. You have had a real impact on the province and Canada’s efforts to decarbonize our economy.” 

A Statement from Keith Brooks, Programs Director for Environmental Defence, a Canada-wide citizen organization advocating for action on climate change

Posted May 13^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Despite the announcement from the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) that Ontario is moving ahead with contracting a new gas plant in Napanee, this represents a win for Ontarians.

The IESO has come up short of its stated goal of procuring 1500 Megawatts (MW) of new polluting gas plants in the midst of a climate crisis because Ontario’s communities said “no.”

This is a win for electricity ratepayers, for communities and for the climate. Natural gas fired electricity generation comes at a high cost to both the public and the environment, especially when there are cheaper and cleaner alternatives available. Continue reading →

Region’s Plan to Expand Merritt Road in Welland, Pelham and Thorold Area Could Spell Doom for Any and All Provincially Significant Wetlands That Happen to Be in the Way

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

Posted May 10th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Signs like this were often seen at public rallies in Niagara over the past decade where citizens called on our politicial leaders to save what is left of our natural places.

Should we be playing Mother Nature with wetlands that have been evolving here, nourishing wildlife, buffering their surroundings from flooding and serving as natural purifying systems for our water for countless thousands of years?  

Should we try replacing these age-old wetlands with new ones we try constructing to make way for more roads and urban sprawl?

There are at least some urban planners and developers who still believe we should and the term they have often used for this idea of creating one wetland to make up for bulldozing over another is “biodiversity offsetting.” Continue reading →

“It’s long past time to provide a benefit for the people who are putting in long hours to make sure loved ones are cared for.”       – Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

News from Ontario’s New Democratic Party

Posted May 9^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates whose riding includes Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake has been after the Ford government to provide better quality care and more resources for staff in long-term-care homes for years.

QUEEN’S PARK – MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls), Official Opposition critic for Long Term care will introduce a motion that would provide a benefit for people providing full or part time care for loved ones.

“So many of us become a caregiver for a loved one at some point in our lives,” said Gates. “It’s essential, intensive, and sometimes full-time work that can often go completely unpaid. It’s long past time to provide a benefit for the people who are putting in long hours to make sure loved ones are cared for.”

Millions of Ontarians (– a majority of whom are women – reported that they provide unpaid care for family and friends. From basic medical tasks to administrative support, caregivers provide an endless stream of support, often with significant financial cost. Continue reading →

Exercise Heatwave to take place between May 7th and 9th

A News Release from the Government of Ontario

Posted May 7^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – While reading this News Release from a Ford Government that has done so little to address our climate crisis and has actually done  more to fuel it, it is hard to know whether to laugh or to cry tears of dismay and anger.

Do Doug Ford and his enablers have any idea why we are having more frequent extreme heat emergencies?

Does it dawn on them that scientists around the world are now convinced, based on real evidence, that there is a link between these more frequent extreme heat episodes and a continued rise in global temperatures due, in no small part, to governments like Ford’s failing to take the leadership so urgently needed to address the climate crisis? Continue reading →

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted May 7th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario –Niagara Region is looking for input from the public as well as a variety of public and private sectors to help develop a Waste Management Strategic Plan (the Plan) that will provide the framework and direction for waste management in the region over the next 25 years.

The Waste Management Strategic Plan will look at a variety of services and programs affecting waste management in the region and consider possible options such as current service levels, introduction of new programs, disposal capacity and alternative technologies. Continue reading →

Partners seeking community feedback to change status of environmental indicator

News and a Call-Out for Public Feedback from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Posted Mary 6^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

July 25,2006- Niagara Falls, Ontario- The Falls- photo by Simon Wilson/ Canadian Press Images

Niagara, Ontario – The health of fish communities and colonial waterbirds in the Niagara River has improved thanks to decades of work of local agencies and partners collaborating on the Niagara River Remedial Action Plan (RAP).

The RAP program relies on a suite of ecosystem indicators to track and address key environmental concerns that previously impacted the Niagara River such as poor water quality and degraded habitat.

The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), the agency that coordinates the RAP program with several local partners, is seeking public input on the recommendation to change the status of one of these indicators related to fish and wildlife populations. Continue reading →

Wildflower plant sale in support of Niagara Bee Group youth education

A Call-Out to All of Us from the Niagara Bee Group

Posted May 6^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Hello friends,

Niagara Bee Group is holding a native wildflower plant sale until Saturday, May18th, these are pre orders with pickup on May 23rd. We are holding a free pollinator garden workshop at 1:00 P.M. with Master Gardener Mary-Lynn at the Apple Hill Apothecary in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Please respond if you would like to participate. (Respond by clicking on the link below for the Niagara Bee group for contact information.)

Bees and butterflies are specialist pollinators and require native flowers to survive.

Please consider allocating  some of your gardening budget this year to supporting bees and other pollinators by planting native wildflowers.

Please click on this link to purchase. All details are outlined there: Continue reading →

Do We Continue Down the Road We Have On For the Past 50 or more years? Or Do We Choose The Road to a Healthier, Greener Future?

Posted May 5^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

By Doug Draper

When you look at the road too many of our municipal, provincial and federal politicians and too many of the rest of us continue choosing to take – a road that won’t address our climate crisis but will make it worse, I think of the following quote from longtime American environmentalist and climate fighter Bill McKibben –

On the growing climate change, scientists around the world are warning us over and over again that we have reached the crossroad, with the sign for one road – the road we have been on for far too many years  –  reading; Point Of No Return.

We pretend that it isn’t really there  there at our peril and at the peril of generations to come.

Which road are you going to take? The one we’ve been on or the road to a greener, carbon-free future?

P.S – Please don’t decide don’t say Yes – in fact tell our municipal and provincial politicians that you are saying NO – to Niagara Region’s plans for an expansion of Merritt Road through natural heritage lands in the Pelham, Thorold, Welland Area or to the the provincial Ford government’s plans for twinning the Garden City Skyway crossing the Welland Canal in St. Catharines or the construction of a brand new, multi-land Highway 413 through our Greenbelt lands around the GTA.

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

Kent State University in Ohio, May 4th, 1970

“Flowers Are Better Than Bullets” –Allison Krause, one of the four Kent State Univesity students who was shot and killed during a May 4rth, 1970 anti-war protest at Kent State University in Ohio

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

Posted May 3^rd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

On the 25th Anniversary of the Kent State University shootings, a young girl lays flowers on a spot where one of the four students lay dead following the shootings. Photo by Doug Draper

With all of the discussion and debate that has been triggered by protests now taking place on university and college campuses across the United States and Canada, taking place over, I am reminded, once again, of a shocking event that took place 54 years ago this May 4^th during an anti-Vietnam War protest on the campus of Kent University in Ohio.

That event involved units of Ohio’s National Guard putting live ammunition in their rifles and shooting into a crowd of unarmed students. When the smoke from the rifle fire cleared, four students –two of them not even involved in the protest – were dead and a number of other were injured.

One of the iconic photographs taken in the aftermath of the Kent State shootings

In both the United States and in Canada, where thousands of young Americans were coming to escape being drafted to fight in that war they viewed as unjust and unnecessary, even those who supported America’s involvement in that war were mortified at what happened on the grounds of an institution for learning on that May 4^th day. Continue reading →

New Documents Expose the Fossil Fuel Industry’s Deceptive Commitments to Reduce Emissions, Misleading Statements About the Alleged Climate Safety of Natural Gas, False Promises on New Technologies, and Obstruction of Investigation

A News Release from U.S Congressional Committees Investigating Big Oil’s Efforts To Avoice Accountability for Climate Change

Posted May 3rd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

The tar sands in Fort McMurray, Alberta – a region of Canada that has recently seen record numbers of destructive wildlires. Yet Canada’s federal government goes on subsidizing the corporations that run this climate-ravaging operation

(A Brief Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Niagara At Large is posting this blockbuster U.S. Congressional report here because ‘Big Oil’ has corporate tentacles that have an impact on policies for addressing  the climate crisis at all levels of government in Canada and around the world.

‘Big Oil’ and all 0f the oil and gas corporations in the United States, Canada and other countries around the world that fall under its umbrella, is the enemy folks. For the sake of our planet and generations of humans and other living beings to come, we CANNOT let it win.)

Washington, D.C. (April 30, 2024)—Today, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, released a joint staff report, entitled “Denial, Disinformation, and Doublespeak: Big Oil’s Evolving Efforts to Avoid Accountability for Climate Change.”  Continue reading →

“The decision by (The Ontario Land Tribunal) recognizes the importance of Council insisting that development projects reflect our vision for growth in our community. That vision includes setting policies that follow provincial policies and legislation but, more importantly, that require new developments to complement the existing area and benefit the community.”                                       – Fort Erie Mayor, Wayne Redekop

News from the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 2^nd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

FORT ERIE, Ontario –  The Town of Fort Erie’s decision to oppose a development proposal along its historic waterfront properties on Erie Road was upheld by the Ontario Land Tribunal. 

On Monday, April 29, 2024, the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) dismissed an appeal to amend the Town of Fort Erie’s Zoning By-law (No. 129-90) sought by Crystal Bay Cottages Inc. to permit the redevelopment of their property at 4409 Erie Road in the community of Crystal Beach.

The proposal requested a rezoning of the property from its current Waterfront Residential (WR) zoning to allow eight new housing units to be built. Continue reading →

One of all too species at risk in Ontario due to continued habitat loss

“Highway 413 will not be built by 2025, or at all, as long as the federal government does its job by denying permits to destroy federally protected species at risk and their habitats, by preventing construction close to waterways and by acting quickly to once again designate Highway 413 for a full Impact Assessment under the updated Impact Assessment Act.”

Statement from Phil Pothen, Land Use and Land Development program manager for the citizen activist organization, Environmental Defence

Posted May 1^st, 2023 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Here we go again and again and again. If Doug Ford and his governing Tories can’t find one way of destroying what Ford once called “chunks” of our Greenbelt lands, he will find another.

Last year, pressure from Ontario citizens, provincial opposition parties and a damning report from the province’s Auditor General put the brakes on one Ford government scheme to carve away pieces of these precious food-growing and habitat lands for wildlife to Ford-friendly developers. Continue reading →

“We intend to collaborate with heritage, planning and environmental experts to ensure we preserve the significant attributes of the land and buildings comprising The Wilderness.” – Lyle Hall, Chair of The Niagara Foundation

News from The Niagara Foundation in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Posted April 30^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

The Niagara Foundation is pleased to announce an agreement to acquire 100% of The Wilderness (as it has been known for more than one hundred years), located at 407 King Street in Old Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.  

The almost 5-acre property has significant historic, cultural, environmental and botanical importance within the Niagara region.  

“Acquisition of the Wilderness has been a goal of the Foundation for some time,” said Lyle Hall, Chair of The Niagara Foundation.  “We are pleased to have reached an amicable agreement with Ken Reid to acquire the 50% interest not already under our control, giving us complete ownership of the property.” Continue reading →

“In light of the challenges posed by an evolving healthcare landscape, it is essential to acknowledge the sacrifices and dedication demonstrated by physicians over the past few years.” – Dr. Satish Chawla, Niagara Health’s Interim Chief of Staff and Executive Vice-President, Medical Affairs

A News Release form Niagara Health, Niagara’s amalgamated system of hospital services

Posted April 30^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – As Doctors’ Day approaches on Wednesday, May 1, Niagara Health is taking the opportunity to celebrate and honour the dedicated physicians who serve Niagara communities with unwavering commitment and excellence.

“Doctors’ Day provides us with a special opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to our dedicated physicians for their tireless efforts to ensure the highest standards of Safe and Quality Care,” says Lynn Guerriero, President and Chief Executive Officer.

“Through their expertise, compassion and collaborative spirit, they continue to make a profound impact on the lives of those we serve.” Continue reading →

 ‘Free birth control would not only save hundreds of dollars a year for millions of Canadians, but it also gives more freedom and control to women to make their own decisions about their reproductive health. … But Pierre Poilievre is clear: he doesn’t want women to have access to free birth control.’                              – Canada’s NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh

News from Canada’s federal New Democratic Party

Posted April 30th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre joins protest march against health-related COVID mandates in 2022

A Brief Foreword Note from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – There should be no surprise here that Pierre Poilievre and his federal Conservatives – a party that has talked about “defunding” CBC, has a leader that marched with anti-vaxxer truckers in Ottawa, and that has no real climate plan of its own – would want to end access to free birth control to women in need.

If elected to government, it would not also be surprising  to see Poilievre and his Conservatives, like their Trump Republican counterparts to the south, ban other reproductive rights for women, including medically necessary abortions.

Now here is the federal NDP News Release – 

Canada’s NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh

TORONTO—This  past Friday, April 26^th, Canada’s NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and NDP critic for Women and Gender Equality Leah Gazan called out Pierre Poilievre’s plan to take away free birth control from 9 million Canadians.

In February, Jagmeet Singh and the NDP forced the federal government to deliver free birth control for Canadians as part of a new universal pharmacare program. Earlier this April, during the first day of debate on the bill implementing this important step, Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives introduced an amendment to block it. Continue reading →

A Cellphone ban “is not getting at the root causes of youth’s struggles concentrating in the classroom, such as mental health issues, peer relationship struggles or social media addiction. …Simply banning cellphones is not going to address all of these challenges, nor will implementing punishments for students who don’t adhere.” – Naomi Andrews, Assistant Professor in Brock University’s Department of Child and Youth Studies

A Response to Ford Government’s Cellphone Ban in Schools from Brock University Experts

Posted April 30^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines, Niagara – While a ban on cellphones in Ontario classrooms will temporarily keep them out of students’ hands, the move will do little to support the mental health of youth across the province, say Brock University experts.

Assistant Professor Naomi Andrews in the Department of Child and Youth Studies says that while limiting cellphone use in schools might reduce in-class distractions, it won’t address many of the underlying problems that impact the mental health of children and youth. Continue reading →

News from Ontario’s Doug Ford Government

Posted April 30^th, 2024

don’t use cell phone – sign image

Ontario’s plan to refocus the education system on getting back-to-basics in the classroom includes new standardized provincewide measures, increased parent communication and $17.5 million (2024-25) in additional resources to support students.

Starting in the 2024-25 school year, Ontario families can expect:

Continue reading →

“Regional Council is committed to the Vision Zero program and supporting programs that help achieve its objective of safer roads in Niagara. As Councillors, far too often we hear concerns from constituents about drivers speeding through communities across the region.” – Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted April 29^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario –Niagara Region’s Automated Speed Enforcement Program is showing a positive trend in road safety benefits prompting the Region to expand the program to further improve road safety.

Preliminary data has shown that implementation of the program is seeing results in both slowing down drivers and reducing the number of speeding vehicles across the region.

The program achieved a 13 per cent average reduction in speeds and saw the speeding violations per hour decrease by 67 per cent, based on data collected before, during and after the initial deployments of Automated Speed Enforcement cameras. Continue reading →

You Are Invited to a Webinar Meeting hosted by Alliance For a Livable Ontario this Monday, April 29^th at 7 P.M (See a link for registering for this Webinar Below

This Webinar Notice was circulated by Liz Benneian and the Biodiversity and Climate Action Committee  – A large coalition of citizens from across Niagara

Posted April 28^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

What Doug Ford couldn’t get for his developer friends by dismantling the Greenbelt he’s getting through a thousand other ways and the critical farmlands that provide us with food security are at risk as our all of our remaining natural areas.

Farmers are literally being forced off their land by municipalities who are now doing Ford’s dirty work. Public rights to appeal bad planning have been eliminated. Provincial natural heritage planning has gone *poof*. Continue reading →

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

Posted April 20^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

A young Dickie Betts wowing fans with a solo during his years as a frontman with The Allman Brothers Band

Before we leave April behind, this music fan cannot resist saying just a few words for Dickie Betts, the late founder and guitarist and songwriter par excellence for the 1970s super group, The Allman Brothers.

Betts, whose guitar playing placed him in the same club with such greats as Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page and of Jeff Beck (who died last year) of Yardbirds fame, died this past April 18^th at age 80.

The cover of one of The Album Brothers. most popular albums from the 1970s – ‘Brothers and Sisters’

His great latent as a musician first began attracting world-wide attention at the tail end of the 1960s when a traded lead guitar chores with Duane Allman in The Allman Brothers Band- a southern rock and blues band that dared to feature an inter-racial lineup at group members at a time when the world was still recovering from the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King and white bots from the south were still doing their best to keep everything from schools to hotels, restaurants and washrooms fully segregated. Continue reading →

A Statement from Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Posted April 27th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement marking South Africa’s 30th Freedom Day:

“Thirty years ago today, South Africa began a new chapter. After centuries of colonialism and decades of apartheid, South Africans held their first election open to all voters.

“Now a national holiday in South Africa, Freedom Day is an opportunity to celebrate democracy. It’s also a day to honour the heroes who led the way, including Nelson Mandela – a symbol of anti-apartheid revolution and freedom who showed us that better is possible.

“Only four months after being released, Nelson Mandela came to Canada – a testament to our country’s strong support for South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle. Continue reading →

Provincial Gas Tax Funding Will Help Operate and Expand Local Public Transit Services

“We are immensely grateful to the provincial government for their generous allocation of $6.8million in gas tax funding. This critical investment will empower us to enhance our region’s infrastructure and better serve our residents.”                                     – Jim Bradley, Chair of the Regional Municipality of Niagara.

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

Posted April 25^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

A portion of gas taxes collected from the pump have been used to fund municipal transit systems through successive governments in Ontario for many years now.

(A Brief Foreword from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – For those who may not know, this parcel of money for Niagara’s transit system is not a special gift of funding being being awarded here by the Ford government. In Ontario, money collected from gas taxes –  money, by they way, that is collected from each and every one of us every time we pump gas into a car or any other gas-driven vehicle – has been routinely and annually distributed to municipalities across the province that operate transit system for many years now. Here, just for an example, is a link to a newspaper story about gas tax funds going to transit system from 2015  when the former Ontario Liberal government was still in power –https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ontario-gives-municipalities-333-million-from-gas-tax-to-fund-public-transit/article27227965/o  . So it is not clear why Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley is gushing with words of gratitude here  as if the gas tax funds allotted to  transit this year is some kind of a magnanimous gesture on Ford government ‘s part.)

ST. CATHARINES, Niagara – The Ontario government is supporting the newly consolidated Niagara Region Transit system with a $6,845,789 investment from the 2023-24 Gas Tax program.  The funding can be used to expand service hours, increase routes, purchase new vehicles and improve accessibility to increase transit ridership.

“This investment is fantastic news for transit riders across Niagara,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara. Continue reading →

Extension Plan by Niagara Region Threatens a Provincially Significant Wetland/Woodland Area

Please Lend Your Name to the Petition Below Before Saving Natural Heritage Lands in This Area is Too Late!

Posted April 25^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara citizens have been out in front of Niagara’s regional headquarters and local municipal headquarters time and time again urging our elected leaders to protect and preserve what is left of our natural heritage. file photo by Doug Draper

A Brief Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Niagara Regional Council – yes the same Niagara Regional Council  that declared a ‘Climate Emergency’ a few years ago – is now planning to expand Merritt Road in the Thoorld, Pelham, Welland area and potentially destroy provincially significant wetlands we need to preserve the biodiversityso important to the survival of all life on this earth  and  to combat climate change.

I am beginning to wonder if the last refuge of municipal council and staff who want to go on with business as usually is to declare a Climate Emergency.

A Petition has been started by Niagara resident Jason Lovejoy to stop this environmental vandalism in the Thorold, Pelham, Welland area. Please read it and lending your name to it if you can.

A Petition Started by Jason Lovejoy

Attention Niagara Residents, Especially, Residents of Thorold, Pelham and Welland

Why this petition matters

The Niagara Region plans to spend $52M to modify a 3km section of Merritt Road, including a new 800m extension through a Provincially Significant Wetland/Woodland, that is supposed to be protected from development and alteration, and along Rice Rd.

This Petition is to Stop the Merrit Road Expansion, and save the Provincially Significant Wetlands & Woodlands (PSW&W)!

The wetlands/woodlands along Merritt Road are providing valuable climate change mitigation and flood management functions at no cost to local residents! The land around Merritt Road contains a sensitive flood plain which cannot be fragmented any further without increasing the risk of impacting homes in the area. This development may also turn Merritt Road into a speedway, right next to the children’s playground, Merritt Meadows.

Please join us in telling the Region to save money and lower taxes while accommodating housing growth with improved public transit, proper watershed management, and better/cheaper roadwork alternatives. 

Sign the PATH petition and/or learn more at https://www.pelhampath.ca/

We, the undersigned, petition the Regional Council of Niagara as follows:

1. To commit to protecting the Natural Environment System that the Region itself designated (Niagara Official Plan, June 2022) by permanently protecting the PSW&W of Singer’s Drain and Towpath Drain and not approving the proposed improvements to the undeveloped Merritt Road. 

2. To reconsider alternatives i.e. improving / expanding existing transportation corridors east/west (Port Robinson Road, Quaker Road) and north/south (Cataract Road & Merrittville Highway).

3. To create a trail through this area for human use and to maintain connectivity between natural areas. This trail would connect the existing Steve Bauer Trail in Pelham through Thorold and Welland to the Welland Canal Trail System and could be included in a Niagara GeoPark system.

4. To ensure that all future studies of such projects must include a report on a realistic analysis of the climate crisis impact and determine an accurate valuation of the natural heritage and biodiversity of the study area.

5. To complete extensive studies of the blue salamander, unique crayfish, chimney swift and other fauna, as well as the various rare existing flora within the area of this proposed development, before this project receives Council approval.

6. To allocate the $52+ million (Preliminary Estimate) for this project to be redirected to improve public transit and fix the Region’s aging infrastructure, which is now estimated to cost some $2 billion.

Sign the Petition by Clicking on – https://www.change.org/p/stop-proposed-merrit-road-expansion?cs_tk=AqjTn6Lk7I_GMoxJMmYAAXicyyvNyQEABF8BvPLCLbBEvFQxh5JQc3JaTfw%3D&utm_campaign=6689e5c5521a4a75b19ff7be694ad983&utm_content=initial_v0_4_1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=petition_signer_receipt&utm_term=cs .

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

400-Series Highways – Including Niagara’s Highway 406 Between Thorold and Welland -Will See Posted Speeds Of 110km/h

News From Ontario’s Ford Government

Posted April 24^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Just what we need! Doesn’t the Ford Government have anything better to do – like go after the price-gougers in the grocery and housing industries for example? How about saving a few forests or wetlands or ending government subsidies for corporations like Enbridge to construct more pipelines to heat homes with  climate-ravaging gas?

Apparently not.

During a time when we are seeing more wild and reckless driving on our roads and highways, why not consider raising speed limes. And consider this. If the posted speed limit goes up to 110 km/h, now we will have drivers gunning up to speeds of 130 or 140,and as usual, there won’t be enough police around to catch them.)

Now here is the News Release from the Ford Government – 

The Ontario government is raising the speed limit permanently from 100 km/h to 110 km/h on 10 additional sections of provincial highways in northern and southern Ontario.

The change builds on the safe and successful increase to six sections of provincial highways in 2022 and aligns with posted speed limits in other jurisdictions across Canada. Continue reading →

“The free testing program has not only facilitated access to safe drinking water for Niagara residents, but revelations from testing has led to Niagara’s high instance of bacterial contamination, which was only made available using the data collected from the free drinking water testing program offered by Public Health Ontario”                                                                                     – St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens, Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch and Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

From lett, Niagara MPPs Jeff Burch, Wayne Gates and Jennie Stevens

Posted April 24^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Now I know that Earth Day is over. Pardon the way I put this but his is friggin unbelievable. When is all of the dismantling of Ontario’s health and environmental protection programs by the Ford Government going to end?)

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 News Brief by Doug Draper

Posted April 23rd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Ontario’s Ford Government has appointed Bob Gale, a third-term Niagara Regional Councillor for the City of Niagara Falls, to a one-year term as Chair of the Niagara Parks’ Board of Commissioners..

Gale was a Ford Conservative Party candidate for the riding of Niagara Falls in the 2022 provincial election where he was beaten by the riding’s incumbent, NDP MPP Wayne Gates. He  returned to Regional politics in the fall ofthat year after earlier declaring to a reporter at a Niagara Falls newspaper that, as the newspaper put ithe “doesn’t belong in a crowd of politicians.”

“I found that politicians are different from me,” he was quoted saying in the same a June 18th, 2022 Niagara Falls Review article. Continue reading →

Fifty-four Earth Days After The First One, We Are Edging Close to Ecological Collapse And We Need Bolder Action From Our Political Leaders and Ourselves

‘It’s too late to stop all of the beasts climate change will unleash. They’re at the gates; we can feel and hear them out there, in the unknown to come.”                                                                                              – from a 2023 cover story in Macleans Magazine titled “Canada In 2060, A Climate Change Report.”

An Earth Day Commentary by Doug Draper, Niagara At Large publisher and veteran environment reporter

Posted April 22, 2024, on Niagara At Large

During the very first Earth Day, on April 22nd, 1970, I was a high school student in Welland and I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing that day.

I and four other students from my high school received permission from a rare few of our more progressive-minded teachers to stage a protest outside a Union Carbide plant that had long been notorious for belching dark, dirty clouds of smoke over the city’s south end and onward, into the horizon.

On the very first Earth Day on April 22, 1970, this future environment reporter, Doug Draper, was out front wearing a gas mask and holding up a sign that read; ‘If You Aren’t Part Of The Solution, You Are Part Of The Pollution’ in front of a polluting plant in Welland. file photo

We were greeted by workers at the plant, out for a lunch break, who threw empty pop cans at the chain-link fence between us and who shouted at us to “get back to school.” But there were also a good number of cars that passed by with drivers giving us a thumb’s up and honking their horns in support. Continue reading →

An Earth Day Special – Don’t Miss This Documentary – Airing this  This Monday, April 22nd, 9 P.M. On PBS – WNED TV Network Serving the Western New York and Southern Ontario Regions – About An Environmental Disaster That Unfolded In A Neibhourhood Near the Shores of the Niagara River

“The documentary  highlights how ordinary women fought for their families’ safety, challenged  those in power, and galvanized a grassroots movement that led to the landmark (U.S.) Superfund Bill.”

A Call-Out to All of Usto Watch this Stirring Story from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice, an organization founded by Environmental Advocate and former Love Canal ResidentLois Gibbs

This young child is among hundreds of residents iin the poisoned Love Canal neighbourhood crying out for help.

Posted April 21st^d, 2024 on Niagara At Large

The American Experience documentary *Poisoned Ground: The Tragedy at Love Canal* premieres tomorrow April 22 on PBS, PBS.org, and the PBS App.

This Earth Day, the documentary premiere chronicles the story of Love Canal, a  neighborhood in Niagara Falls, N.Y., where residents discovered their homes were  built on a toxic chemical waste dump, leading to health crises.

The documentary  highlights how ordinary women fought for their families’ safety, challenged  those in power, and galvanized a grassroots movement that led to the landmark Superfund Bill.

Finally, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, seen here with Love Canal resident and leader of the Love Canal Homeowners Association, comes to the rescue with a federal emergency declaration

The Love Canal tragedy began with industrial waste dumping in the late 1940s and escalated in the 1970s with widespread health issues. CHEJ founder, Lois Gibbs, and several residents pushed for government action, eventually leading to federal emergency declarations and the passage of the (U.S.) Superfund Bill, marking Love Canal as the first Superfund site for cleanup.

Filmmaker Jamila Ephron emphasizes the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities affected by  toxic waste contamination.

While you prepare yourselves for the premiere, be sure to get ready by watching the official trailer here –

• Thank you, The Team at the Center for Health, Environment & Justice

For more on the Center for Health, Environment and Justice, click here – <www.chej.org?link_id=2&can_id=4babaab2162247c7eb9a1f215bbd0de9&source=email-earth-day-and-beyond-2&email_referrer=email_2288400___subject_2815308&email_subject=on-earth-day-watch-poisoned-ground-the-tragedy-at-love-canal-premiering-on-pbs-9nil11-pm-et>

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

“Solar energy can power anything.The impact of inventing new low-cost, highly efficient solar cell alternatives is profound and urgent. It could change the future of energy in Canada and address the worldwide energy shortage for humankind.”                                          – Jianbo Gao, Brock University Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry

News About A Greener Energy Future from Brock University in St. Catharines, Niagara

Posted April 19^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Those  Niagara Regional Councillors who recently voted in favour of using our tax dollars for subsidizing the connection of gas pipelines to new homes for as long as 40 more years should consider the following news from Brock University. It might help at least some of them get their heads out of the sand and take the climate emergency we are facing more seriously.)

As Earth Day (this April 22^nd) nears, prompting people to reflect on their conservation efforts, an international expert in solar cell research at Brock University is working to make green energy more accessible to all.

Jianbo Gao, Assistant Professor in Brock’s Department of Chemistry and Affiliated Professor in the Yousef Haj-Ahmad Department of Engineering shares some very encouraging news about solar energy and for the future of our planet.

Jianbo Gao, Assistant Professor in Brock’s Department of Chemistry and Affiliated Professor in the Yousef Haj-Ahmad Department of Engineering<https://brocku.ca/mathematics-science/engineering/>, is leading novel research in photovoltaics, a method of converting solar radiation into electricity. Continue reading →

A Few Brief Words from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted April 19^th, 2024 on Niagara At Larger

Doug French

Thirty-two years after their daughter Kristen’s murdered body was found three torturous days after she did not make it home from school one spring afternoon before the Easter weekend holiday, it is still hard to imagine how Doug and Donna French and others in their family made it through the heartache and horror.

I was still working as a reporter at The St. Catharines Standard at the time and a few times during and after the trials of the monsters responsible for her death, I saw Doug and Donna French standing at the reception desk of our newsroom, waiting to speak to one or more of my news colleagues over stories the paper was continuing to publish on the terrible episode. Continue reading →

“I continue to work with Welland. Port Colborne and Fort Erie to ensure the hospital and the two UCCs (Urgent Care Centres) are maintained with the services expected by the respective communities.”                                                                                                       – Vance Badawey, federal Liberal Government MP for Niagara Centre

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

Posted April 18^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey is ministerial assistant on federal transporation file

Vance Badawey, MP for Niagara Centre and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport, is pleased with this April 16^th’s tabling of the 2024 Budget.

“Housing healthcare, affordability, and economic incentives top my list of priorities that we advocated for that have been introduced in this budget,” stated Badawey.

Continue reading →

Polluting Gas Will Provide 25 Per Cent of Ontario’s Electricity In 2030 – Up From Four Per Cent

News from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a citizens group advocating for a healthier environoment and real action on climate change

Posted April 17^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

According to the Independent Electricity System Operator’s (IESO) 2024 Annual Planning Outlook,  one-quarter of Ontario’s electricity supply in 2030 will be produced by burning fossil gas. 

To add insult to injury, the IESO is asking the federal government to establish emission caps which will allow the gas plants’ greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution in 2035 to be 5.2 times greater than their 2017 level. In addition, it is asking the Government of Canada to allow the gas plants to continue to operate until 2050. Continue reading →

Young people “face a world full of trauma, pain, hate and judgment, and while social media may be a symptom of these things, it is not the sole cause, and to suggest so is to overlook a thousand other contexts that shape young people’s lives.”  – Brock Professor Shauna Pomerantz,  Department of Child and Youth Studies 

News from Brock University in St. Catharines/Niagara

Posted April 17^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – While four Ontario school boards recently announced a $4.5-billion lawsuit against the social media giants behind Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok, Brock University experts are calling for additional actions to address the influence popular online platforms have on teens.

Brock Univers Professor Shauna Pomerantz in the Department of Child and Youth Studies

Professor Shauna Pomerantz in the Department of Child and Youth Studies says that although a leak from whistleblower Frances Haugen shows that Meta was aware of the harm teenaged girls experienced using Instagram, she also fails “to see how suing social media corporations will stop bullying, mental health crises and inattentive students.”

She suggests that other options, such as regulating or banning smartphones in schools, could make a big difference in spite of the complexities of culture change and rule enforcement.

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“It’s hard to think of a more enticing target for corruption than unchecked municipal decisions to approve sprawl.”

“By rubber-stamping an application to needlessly extend a settlement boundary and bulldoze farmland or wildlife habitat, a small town councilor could confer hundreds of millions in windfall wealth upon a real estate speculator who bought up farmland at a low price.”

A Statement from Phil Pothen, Land Use and Land Development Program Manager, Environmental Defence Canada

Posted April 17^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Toronto – The Ontario Ford Government’s proposed Provincial Planning Statement and Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act seem calculated to ensure that the Greenbelt sprawl and real estate scandal spreads and expands into a wave of suburban “Greenfield Scandals”.

Bill 185 would hinder efforts to speed up housing construction by promoting the wasteful, low-density sprawl that has caused Ontario’s housing shortage.

Together, the new law and the proposed Provincial Planning Statement would effectively wipe out the protective Settlement Area Boundaries and Municipal Comprehensive Review processes that prevent low-density sprawl from destroying what remains of farmland and natural areas outside the Greenbelt.

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“We are excited to announce that Welland’s Central Fire Station has been nominated as a finalist for The Next Great Save Competition! … Saving this building will reinforce the historical, cultural and commercial importance of the downtown while preserving a century-old architectural jewel.”                                                              – from Nora Reid and all of the volunteer members of  the Central  Station Education Initiative 

A Brief Foreword from Niagara At Large reporter/ Publisher Doug Draper

Posted on Niagara At Large on April 16th,2024

Welland’s grand old Central Fire Hall in the city’s downtown

Congratulations to all of the members , friends and loyal supporters of the Central Station Education Initiative, dedicated to protecting and preserving the icon, century old Welland Central Fire Station in the city’s downtown.

They have very recently received the good news that their project to save this classic heritage building is one of 12 finalists in the Camada-wide “Next Great Save  Competition sponsored each year by National Trust Canada. Continue reading →

Stations would supply reliable, affordable and clean power for an additional 30 years

“OPG’s investment at the Sir Adam Beck complex in Niagara Falls will ensure that Ontario has the power needed to support the growing demands of our economy, while creating 200 new, good-paying jobs for local workers.” –               – Vic Fedeli, Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade

“The Niagara region played a foundational role in Ontario’s early electrification more than a century ago and will continue to be a clean electricity centre for decades to come, thanks to this refurbishment.”                    – Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley

“Through this significant investment Niagara Falls will continue to help power Ontario. We welcome the good jobs and economic development this project brings with it and are proud to build on our long history of clean energy generation.”                                                                                                                            – Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati

A News Release from the Government of Ontario

Posted April 16^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

The Adam Beck Hydro Power facilities along the lower Niagara River in Niagara Falls, Ontario

NIAGARA FALLS , Ontario – The Ontario government is supporting Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) plan to refurbish its hydroelectric stations in the Niagara region, including the Sir Adam Beck Complex at Niagara Falls.

This $1 billion dollar infrastructure program would secure up to 1,700 megawatts (MW) of clean electricity, equivalent to powering 1.7 million homes, helping to meet increasing demand from electrification and fueling the province’s growth. Continue reading →

“We have no idea how many seniors have been fined or forced into a Long-Term Care home against their will, because the Ford government refuses to be transparent.” – Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates.

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

Posted April 16^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates: Ford government admits fining seniors in LTC is just a cost of doing business

Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates whose riding includes Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake has been after the Ford government to provide better quality care and more resources for staff in long-term-care homes for years.

QUEEN’S PARK – MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls), Official Opposition critic for Long Term Care (LTC), caught the Ford government in a tight spot as he pressed them on their decision to fine seniors under Bill 7 (https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/bill-7-passes-ontario-long-term-care-1.6568125) :

“We have no idea how many seniors have been fined or forced into a Long-Term Care home against their will, because the Ford government refuses to be transparent,” said Gates. “We’ve seen awful stories of families being charged $5,200 dollars (https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/charge-bill-7-ontario-government-long-term-care-1.7157231) to keep their loved one close to home – but we’ve learned all of that from determined reporting, not Ford transparency.”

When asked to come clean today, Minister of Health, Sylvia Jones admitted that several people had been charged, but wouldn’t say by how much. Continue reading →