Niagara At Large

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley,

“Timely access to a family doctor is a necessity for a healthy and thriving community, and I am pleased to see the progress Niagara has made in bringing new physicians to the region. Thanks to the ongoing collaboration and joint efforts of the Region, the area municipalities, our health care system and many other partners, more and more family doctors are choosing Niagara as the place to set up practice, and I look forward to seeing continued success in this regard over the coming year.” – Jim Bradley, Niagara Regional Chair

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted March 22^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region has made significant progress in addressing the physician shortage over the past year, with the net addition of 16 family physicians since January 2024, resulting in a net increase of 15,527 patients receiving access to primary care.

This improvement reflects ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare services throughout the region, ensuring that residents have timely and equitable access to family doctors. This figure reflects the addition of 26 new physicians over the past year, offset by 10 who left practice during the same period. Continue reading →

Media Statement from Ontario Nature, a citizens group dedicated to protecting and preserving Ontario’s natural heritage

Posted March 21^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

An aerial view of Parks Canada lands where historic Fort George is located near the mouth of the Niagara River in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

With a federal election on the horizon, it is imperative that all political parties commit to protecting and restoring nature. Canada has already committed to protecting 30% of land, water and oceans by 2030, which is known as the 30 x 30 target.

Yet, significant cuts to Parks Canada’s budget would undermine progress towards this commitment. As reported by Canada’s National Observer, budget documents show Parks Canada is bracing for $450 million in cuts and lapsed funding over the next two years. This would be a significant rollback of nature investment in Canada. Continue reading →

People Power May Still Prevail Over The Dark Shadows Of Trump & Musk

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

Posted March 21^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Vermont Senator and New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) host a huge rally for freedom, democracy and justice for all in the heart of Trumpland

It is  hard these days for a Canadian or for a citizen of any other free and democratic country in Europe or elsewhere around the world to look at what has been unfolding in the United States since Trump’s second ascendency to presidential power and not be overcome with  feelings of dread and despair.

I find myself mourning for a country that only a few weeks ago I still viewed as a good friend and neighbor to our Canada. And the threats of wreaking economic havoc on us as a means to forcing a takeover of our country has driven me and many of my fellow citizens to feelings of anger and determination to break away and forge stronger friendships with Europe and beyond.

But then, as a close friend in the United States reminded me over and over again in a recent phone call about all of this mayhem, many Americans did not vote for Trump and even growing numbers who did are already beginning to regret it and are ready to fight back. Continue reading →

In the wake of Trump’s Tariff Threats, ‘Poilievre failed to react to the fundamental change to Canada’s political discourse until February, when he launched his “Canada First” rebrand, a cheap knock-off of (the Trump) MAGA’s “America First” slogan.”

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

Posted March 21st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, left, and MAGA America’s Donald Trump

The likelihood of Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives landing a parliamentary majority has crashed from near certainty to virtual impossibility since Donald Trump became U.S. president on January 20, according to seat projections by 338 Canada.

From the start of the New Year to February 2, the odds were 99 per cent that Poilievre would score a majority as several reputable pollsters found Conservative support at 47 per cent in mid-January.

Polls from Angus Reid, Leger and IPSOS released this week found Conservative support at 37, 39 and 36 per cent, respectively. Continue reading →

From a Summary Report Prepared And Presented (via overheads) to Niagara Regional Council this March 20^th by Members of the Physician Recruitment Roundtable (links to more detailed report can be found below)

Posted March 21^st. 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The following comes out of a November 26^th 2024 gathering of medical experts, post-secondary school representatives and political leaders in the Niagara region –

Purpose of November, 2024 Roundtable: Niagara’s first-ever roundtable to develop coordinated strategies for attracting and retaining family doctors.

Who Participated: 38 representatives from Niagara’s municipalities, healthcare system, post-secondary institutions, family doctors, and Mayors and CAOs of the area municipalities. Continue reading →

People across the province need a cabinet that “will fight rising costs, invest in building homes, hire doctors, and build a tariff-proof economy.”

A Statement from the Office of Ontario NDP Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles

Posted March 20^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario’s NDP Leader Marit Stiles holds on to ‘Official Oppositon’ status.

TORONTO — Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition, released the following statement in response to Doug Ford’s cabinet announcement:

“I want to congratulate Premier Ford and the new cabinet as they are sworn in. However, at this critical moment for Ontario, this is not the time for more of the same.” said Stiles.

“People are worried about the future of our province and our country. They are struggling to afford groceries; they can’t find a family doctor or an affordable place to live.” Continue reading →

News from the Town of Lincoln Chamber of Commerce in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 21st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is pleased to share the results of its latest survey on the impact of the escalating trade challenges with the U.S. on Ontario businesses.

In collaboration our colleagues across Ontario, we gathered insights from 600 Chamber Network members from February 7 to February 23, 2025. Continue reading →

From Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted on the First Day of Spring, March 20th, 2025

Wow! Did we make it through that winter?

I don’t know about you but waking up to a morning of bone-breaking cold and ice and hard patches of ice that are treacherous to walk on is not my idea of a beautiful day for anything but staying inside with the furnace cranked up.

Those heating bills were enough to bring a chill to your spine too.

But here we finally yard with days growing longer and birds chirping in the trees outside and daffodils and crocuses pushing up through the soil.

It’s the first day pf spring – a time for warmer days and new life – and I love it.  So I am going to leave you in a happy mood, I hope, with one of my favourite songs for spring by one of my all-time favourite groups from the 1960s called The Rascals.

The song is called ‘A Beautiful Morning’ and it was released on March 22^nd, 1968. Crank it up and enjoy by clicking on the screen immediately below –

I’m no doctor, but I don’t think it will do your mind and body any harm if you have that song bouncing through your head for the rest of the day.

• Have a Nice Spring, Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

Thank you for visiting Niagara At Large for news and commentary and please encourage everyone in your circle of life to do the same.

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

Ford says experienced team (all listed below) will deliver on historic mandate from the people to protect Ontario’s economy and workers

A News Release from the Office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford with a commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted March 20^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Commentary by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Wasn’t there a time when political parties that called themselves Conservative believed in reducing the size and cost of government for taxpayers?

Ontario Premier Doug Ford governs again with one of the largest cabinet’s in the province’s history – a cabinet significantly larger than the one recently sworn in under Prime Minister Mark Carney to govern the whole country.

Yet here Ontario’s Conservative Premier Doug Ford goes again – swearing in one of the largest, if not the largest cabinets in the province’s history with a total of 37 members including himself.

Keep in mind that most, if not all cabinet members need an office and astaff and one of those special cars to be chauffeured  around in, all at a total cost of many millions of dollars to the taxpayers of Ontario. But then, having that many party members enjoying the perks of holding a cabinet job is certainly one way of buying Ford party loyalty, isn’t it.

As you go through the list below, ask yourself how many of these cabinet positions scream out duplication and could easily be combined or eliminated completely. Continue reading →

Fewer Canadians Want To Visit the U.S. Now That The Friendship’s Gone

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

Posted March 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Five years ago this week, the Peace Bridge between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, N.Y., like all border crossings between Canada and the United States, closed to all but “essential” traffic due to COVID-19 spread.

It was five years ago this week that the COVID-19 pandemic began sweeping across North America to a point where governments in Canada and the United States were declaring a states of emergency.

At the same time,  Canada-U.S. border crossings, including the Peace Bridge and Rainbow Bridge spanning the Niagara River, were closed to all but “essential” commercial trade-related traffic in a frantic effort to curb the spread of this highly infectious disease.

Now, thanks not to a health crisis like COVID, but to a dangerous idiot in the White House named Donald Trump who is using punishing tariffs in an effort to crush Canada’s economy and threaten its sovereignty, Canadian travel to the United States has dropped to its lowest levels since around the time the COVID border crossing restrictions were lifted some three years ago. Continue reading →

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

Posted March 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – In response to the imposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, the City of St. Catharines is taking decisive action to protect local businesses and ensure economic resilience.

At its meeting on March 17, City Council approved a temporary “Canada-First” procurement policy, prioritizing Canadian-made goods and services in municipal purchasing. The policy is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the economic impact of tariffs on local businesses and infrastructure projects. Continue reading →

“Canadian consumers, now more than ever, have a strong dissociative identity from the U.S. It’s not just that they’re choosing the Canadian option, it’s that they’re not choosing the American products.”                    – Brock U. Professor of Marketing and Consumer Psychology Antonia Mantonakis

News on Canadian Response to Trump Threats from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted March 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – As trade war tensions wax and wane, people north of the 49th parallel aren’t meeting U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs and annexation with their characteristic politeness.

“Canadians are justly reacting to the imposition of tariffs with outrage, recognizing that they are aimed at their prosperity and quality of life,” says Brock University Associate Professor of Theory and Rhetoric Andrew Pendakis.

Assistant Professor of Sport Management Taylor McKee says many Canadians are responding to these threats by tapping into the use of traditional sport language and doubling down on the connection between hockey and national identity. Continue reading →

Losing the world’s trust, and a lot of money too

“America is no longer a reliable ally to the world’s democracies; indeed, between Trump’s turn toward Putin and his talk of annexing Canada and Greenland, we don’t look like an ally at all. “

A Commentary by Paul Krugman, retired New York Times columnist and Nobel Prize winning economist

Posted March 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

President Joe Biden meets with Paul Krugman, economist and OpEd columnist for The New York Times,

Last week Mark Carney, having won the Liberal Party’s leadership election, became Canada’s Prime Minister. And it looks possible that he may hold that position for a while. Not long ago the Liberals seemed headed for an electoral wipeout, but they’ve seen an amazing surge in the polls.

The secret behind that surge is, of course, Donald Trump, who has not only imposed tariffs on Canada without any justification but keeps doubling down on his completely insane demand that Canada become the 51st state.

 Every time Trump or his minions repeat that demand, they strengthen Carney’s hand against (Canada’s )Pierre Poilievre, the Bitcoin-loving, Trumpy-sounding Conservative leader.Source: The Economist Continue reading →

To Ontario Premier Doug Ford – Rip up the GE-Hitachi US nuclear contract

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

Posted March 17^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Premier Ford says he will tear up Ontario’s expensive contract for Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite service in the wake of Donald Trump’s unhinged attacks on our economy. And thanks to Doug Ford, American wine and bourbon is gone from our liquor stores.

He  has also ordered the Ontario Public Service to go through the province’s contracts “with a fine tooth comb” to find other U.S. contracts that can be axed. According to Premier Ford: “We won’t award contracts to people who enable and encourage economic attacks on our province and our country.” Continue reading →

News from Ontario, Canada’s Niagara Parks Commission

Posted March 16^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

The Horseshoe Falls lit up in green. photo courtesy of Ontario, Canada’s Niagara Parks Commission

Niagara Falls, Ontario  – The Niagara Falls Illumination Board will be illuminating both the Canadian Horseshoe and American Falls in green on March 17 for 15-minutes at the top each hour, beginning at 8:00 p.m., in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.

The illumination is carried out each year as part of Tourism Ireland’s “Global Greening” initiative, which sees hundreds of iconic landmarks from around the world lit in green to mark the occasion.  Continue reading →

“Canada was built upon a union of peoples – Indigenous, French, and British. My visit to France and the United Kingdom will strengthen trade, commercial, and defence ties with two of our strongest and most reliable partners.” – Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

News from the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada

Posted March 16^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Comment from Doug Draper – This seems like a very good start for Canada’s new Prime Minister – strengthen trade ties with other friendly countries. Tell hell with Trump’s United States and its trade war on our Canada.)

Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney

Ottawa, Ontario – The Prime Minister and Canada’s new government are focused on what matters most right now: creating more higher-paying jobs, building new trade relationships with reliable partners, and making Canada more secure. 

To that end, the Prime Minister announced this past March 15^th, 2025 that he will travel to Paris, France, London, United Kingdom, and Iqaluit, Nunavut, from March 16 to 18, 2025, to strengthen two of our closest and longest-standing economic and security partnerships, and to reaffirm Canada’s Arctic security and sovereignty. Continue reading →

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

Posted March 15^th, 2025

War, Bigotry & Genocide, Greed & Corruption, Needless Poverty, Hunger & Homelessness, Preventable Diseases & Pandemics, Habitat Loss & Extinction Of Growing Numbers Of Species of Animals & Plants, Pollution of the Air, Water, Soil & Food We Eat,  Human Induced-Climate Disasters – To Name Some Of Havoc We Humans Are Responsible For On This Planet.

No wonder Michael J. Fox, a Canadian/American activist and retired actor, once said this –

A Footnote from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large –

A recently published book worth reading.

I have had the pleasure of co-existing with cats and dogs all of my life and I closely watch the birds, squirrels and other creatures, great and small, living their lives in my yard and the creatures at least trying to live their lives in what is left of the open fields, wetlands and forests that we humans have not yet destroyed.

Do those creatures  living in the wild  hunt and kill other creatures for food? Yes they do. But nothing they do is driven by greed, cruelty and hatred.

So I fully agree with Michael Fox’s observation, and it leaves me wondering – Would this planet be better off if we went extinct?

Perhaps that is something we should all think about if we can’t learn to live together peacefully as humans and live in harmony with other life on this miraculous oasis in space called Earth.

• 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 Statement from Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore

Posted March 15^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO, Ontario — This past March 14th, 2025, Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health, issued the following statement:

“Over the last several weeks, we have seen the number of new measles cases rise to 173 bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Ontario to 350 since 2024, including 31 hospitalizations.

This is the most measles cases Ontario has seen in over a decade. It is critical we work together to mitigate further spread of this vaccine-preventable disease.

Continue reading →

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted March 14th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Marco Rubio, Trump’s Secretary of State and long-time lap boy was doing his dear leader’s bidding in Canada this March 13th and 14th.

When Marco Rubio, Trump’s recently anointed secretary of state with a long record of kissing the orange man’s ring while he was a U.S. senator, came to Canada this past March 13th to represent this country in a G7 meeting, he said that Trump’s repeated threat to make Canada a “51st state” was not going to be part of the meeting’s agenda.

Then, this March 14th, when entertaining questions from the media following the end of the Quebec meeting between representatives of the G7 countries, including Canada, the United States, France, Italy, Germany, Japan and the United Kingdom, Rubio – or “Little Marco” as Trump used to call him – what did he do?

He dredged up Trump’s offensive view that that Canada would so much “ better off” if it became a 51st state of United States. Continue reading →

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper, followed by a very warm “Dear Canada” video by a fellow Canadian, Tim Thompson

Posted March 13^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

As Trump’s American continues to ramp up its efforts to wreak havoc on Canada’s economy and its threats to make our country a “51^st state,” Tim Thompson, a Toronto filmmaker produced a wonderful “Dear Canada” video that should lift all our spirits.

It speaks to a Canada that we have recently found out that outside of some, Americans collectively don’t know and have never really had any respect or feelings of friendship for.

Why else would tens-of-millions of Americans vote into power and continue to support a president, in the name of Donald Trump, who has, for years, threatened our quality of life and countless Canadian jobs with punishing tariffs, and who now threatens our very right to exist as a sovereign nation? Continue reading →

“Joanne’s commitment to excellence, mentorship, and community service has left a lasting impact on Niagara EMS. Her dedication to patient care and emergency response is truly inspiring, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of her remarkable career.” –   Geordie Harris, commander of EMS operations

News from Niagara Region’s Public Health Department

Posted March 13^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara EMS is proud to announce that emergency medical dispatcher Joanne MacNeil has been awarded the  Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal as part of the Canadian Honours, recognizing her outstanding dedication and leadership in emergency communications.

She is among the first group of Ontario’s emergency medical communicators eligible to receive this honour.

Continue reading →

Team to assist local businesses impacted by U.S. Tariffs

“Lincoln’s economy is built on the hard work and innovation of our local businesses. As global trade policies shift, we must stand united to protect our industries, support our entrepreneurs, and advocate for fair trade practices. “                                                           ~ Sandra Easton, Mayor of the Town of Lincoln

News from the Town of Lincoln in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 13^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Town of Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton

Lincoln, ON – The Town of Lincoln, in partnership with the Downtown Beamsville BIA and the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce the formation of the Lincoln Tariff Response Team (LTRT)—a proactive initiative designed to support and advocate for businesses across the community in response to evolving trade policies and economic challenges. Continue reading →

That Boycott Should Extend To Trump’s Palm Beach Neighbour and Pal Wayne Gretzky Too

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher

Posted March 12^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

In the wake of Trump’s continuous threats to take over our Canada by economic force, we, the Canadian people, don’t have to” pause” or “suspend” retaliatory measures against the orange-face monster to the south like some of our political leaders are. 

On that front, a good argument could be made that our political leaders should not be pausing retaliatory measures either. like Ontario Premier Doug Ford did this March 11^th when he decided to suspend a 25 per cent surcharge on electricity the province sells to three U.S. states.

Trump threatens takeover of Canada

After all, Trump is still threatening Canada with punishing tariffs and a takeover.

So while growing numbers of us are buying Canadian and boycotting American products, let’s be laser focused on boycotting on those regions of the United States – so-called “red” or MAGA Republican states –where disproportionate numbers of Trump’s cult members  live. Continue reading →

A Statement from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles

Posted March 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

TORONTO – Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition, released the following statement in response to the ongoing trade war with the United States:

“Trump’s reckless and constantly shifting tariff threats, now focused on steel and aluminum, are risking jobs on both sides of the border.”

“Ontario’s Official Opposition NDP supports a strong, coordinated response to fight back hard, but we need to do more to ensure that workers’ incomes are protected so they can withstand whatever Trump throws at us in the coming days. We are ready to work together to protect jobs, prevent plant shutdowns and help strengthen our domestic market.”

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

Read the following social media rants against Canada from Trump, uncorked by him on this morning of  March 111^th

Posted March 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

From Trump –

“Based on Ontario, Canada, placing a 25% Tariff on “Electricity” coming into the United States, I have instructed my Secretary of Commerce to add an ADDITIONAL 25% Tariff, to 50%, on all STEEL and ALUMINUM COMING INTO THE UNITED STATES FROM CANADA, ONE OF THE HIGHEST TARIFFING NATIONS ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD.

This will go into effect TOMORROW MORNING, March 12th. Also, Canada must immediately drop their Anti-American Farmer Tariff of 250% to 390% on various U.S. dairy products, which has long been considered outrageous. I will shortly be declaring a National Emergency on Electricity within the threatened area. Continue reading →

On A Weekend When Border Crossings Would Normally Be Jammed With Cars, Significant Numbers of Canadians Were Already Saying NO to Travelling to Trumpland

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

Posted March 11th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Two weekends before Trump became president, Canadians’ car trips to the United States were up 31 per cent from the year before. After a month of insults, attacks and threats, on Family Day weekend, trips were down 35 per cent, according to Statistics Canada data.

The number of Canadian-plated vehicles returning from the United States has been down every weekend since Donald Trump’s January 20 inauguration. Continue reading →

There’s never been a better time to assert our energy independence

A Call-Out to Ontario’s Ford Government from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a citizen’s group advocating for cleaner, greener and more affordable energy

Posted March 11,2025 on Niagara At Large

At a moment when reducing our dependence on American gas imports has never been more important, the Ford government is  making our dependence even worse.

Over the last eight years, we have significantly increased the use of American gas to generate electricity.

Today,  more than 70 per cent of the fossil gas consumed in Ontario comes from the U.S. And Enbridge announced recently that  gas prices will soon surge by 25 percent. Continue reading →

Nikola Tesla opened this past March 8th at the Niagara Parks Power Station 

Tesla: A Spark of Genius, features rare artifacts and personal items from the Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade, Serbia

News from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission

Posted March 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Parks Power Station above the Horseshoe Falls in Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls, Ontaro – Niagara Parks in collaboration with the Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade, Serbia, presents Tesla: A Spark of Genius—a must-see exhibit openedSaturday, March 8, 2025, at the Niagara Parks Power Station.

For more information and tickets, visit niagaraparks.com/tesla.

Continue reading →

Surcharge part of initial retaliatory measures that will remain in place until U.S. tariffs are removed for good

News from the Office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Posted March 10^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford continues to punch back at the bully south of the border

TORONTO — Effective this March 10th, 2025, the Ontario government has applied a 25 per cent surcharge on all electricity exports to the United States as part of the province’s initial suite of retaliatory measures to U.S. tariffs on Canada.

This surcharge will affect 1.5 million homes and businesses in Michigan, Minnesota and New York, costing up to $400,000 every day the surcharge remains in place.

“President Trump’s tariffs are a disaster for the U.S. economy. They’re making life more expensive for American families and businesses,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Until the threat of tariffs is gone for good, Ontario won’t back down. We’ll stand strong, use every tool in our toolkit and do whatever it takes to protect Ontario.”

Continue reading →

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted March 7th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

 “CBC/Radio-Canada is more than a broadcaster—it is a pillar of our cultural identity and a cornerstone of our sovereignty. For nearly a century, it has brought us together, shared our stories and strengthened our national dialogue. In a time of rapid change and external pressures, we must be bold in protecting and modernizing this institution, ensuring it remains strong, independent and truly reflective of who we are.”                             — Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage

As we Canadians from coast to coast to coast continue to wrestle with the threats that Trump is making to our everyday lives, to jobs and our economy and to our country’s sovereignty, and as a continue to follow the race for who will be our next Prime Minister, anyone who has been tuned in to CBC radio or watched the national CBC TV news network may well agree with the words quoted above. Continue reading →

“I am honoured to be the 2025 recipient of the IWD award. It is a blessing to be recognized by the Niagara community….I feel a sense of accomplishment when I think about the impact I have made through Tubman Tours Canada. Sharing Niagara’s rich Black history with visitor groups and other interested people is the most rewarding.” – Rochelle Bush

News from Niagara College, with files from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Posted March 10^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Rochelle Bush (Class of 2018) is owner of Tubman Tours Canada.

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara College alumna Rochelle Bush was in the spotlight this past March 7^th on International Women’s Day for championing Black history in Niagara.

Bush, who is the owner of and primary guide of St. Catharines-based Tubman Tours Canada, will receive the 2025 International Women’s Day award from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) and Women in Niagara (WIN).

The award was presented at the GNCC/WIN IWD event on March 7 in Niagara Falls, where Bush will be a key speaker. The award celebrates one outstanding Niagara woman and her contributions each year. Continue reading →

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 →