Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted February 23rd, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amen to you Jimmy and  forever Rest in Peace.

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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

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

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

An Election Message from the Green Party of Ontaroi

Posted February 20^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

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

Continue reading →

Illinois Govenor JB Pritzer

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

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

Posted February 20^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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

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

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

Posted February 19^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

Let’s Keep It Up!

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

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

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

Posted February 19^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

Posted February 19^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

David Crombie

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

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

Posted by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

February 19^th, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Brief Commentary  by Doug Draper 

Posted February 13^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

importance of tree

An Invited to All from the Niagara District Council Of Women

Posted February 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

Posted February 18th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Dear Mr. Ford,

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

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

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

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

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

An Election Message from Ontario’s Green Party

Posted February 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

And it’s time we set the record straight.

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

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

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

Posted February 14^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

Posted February 13^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

Highlights include…

Continue reading →

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

An Election Message from Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner

Posted February 12^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner

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

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

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

Posted February 12^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

The Ontario PC Party has not responded to our questionnaire.

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

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

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted February 11th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

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

An Election Message from the New Democratic Party of Ontario

Posted February 11th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

A Statement from Canada’s Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh

Posted February 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

Continue reading →

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

Ontario’s NDP Leader Marit Stiles

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

Posted February 10^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

A Brief Message from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted February 10^th, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Posted February 8^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trump threatens takeover of Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

A Brief One for a little fun from Doug Draper

Posted February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

Continue reading →

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

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

photo courtesy of Brock University

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

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

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

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

An Election Message from Ontario’s Liberal Party

Posted February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

An Election Message from Ontario New Democratic Party

Posted February 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

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

Posted February 6th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

Continue reading →

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

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

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

Posted February 6^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

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

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

An Election Message from Ontario’s Liberal Party

Posted February 5^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Liberal Party Leader Bonnie Crombie

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

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

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

Continue reading →

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

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

Posted February 5^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

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

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

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

A Reminder To Us That There Are Many Americans South Of The Border Who Prefer Canada To Donald Trump

A Brief Comment by Doug Draper followed by a video you can watch

Posted February 5^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

American lawyer and political activist George Conway offers a warm hand to Canadians

George Conway, a high-profile Washington, D.C. area lawyer and a political activist who went from being a Republican to a relentless Trump critic through his involvement in an anti-MAGA group called the Lincoln Project, has sent out his own message of apology too and affection for Canadians.

And yes, some may know that he was married – but no longer – to the still-hardcore Trump operative Kellyanne Conway who became infamous as a senior counselor for the first Trump presidency of producing and pushing out what she called “alternative facts” for the liar in chief. Continue reading →

‘Trump’s use of trade war tactics forcing concessions from Mexico and Canada is especially concerning since U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has publicly shared that military force is still an option against Mexico.’ – Martin Danahay, English Language and Literature at Brock University

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Niagara

Posted February 5^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Trump trades salutes with the troops

Niagara, Ontario – In the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump imposing a 10 per cent levy against China and pressing a 30-day pause on proposed tariffs to Canada and Mexico, Martin Danahay is reflecting on the dangerous historical outcomes of past trade wars.

The Professor of English Language and Literature at Brock University specifically notes that the First Opium War, fought between China and the British Empire from 1839-1842, began as a trade imbalance. Continue reading →

“The history of municipal amalgamations in Ontario clearly demonstrates that anticipated cost savings related to amalgamation never materialize and that outlying areas (like Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake) are always the biggest losers.”- Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

An O-Ed by Wayne Gates, NDP MPP for a Niagara Falls Riding that includes Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake and Fort Erie

Posted February 4th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Amalgamation of Niagara’s border communities will lead to increased taxes and fewer services, Niagara Falls Riding MPP Wayne Gates says

Local Conservative politicians have been pushing for the provincial government to prioritize municipal amalgamation in Niagara.

It’s a dangerous scheme that is likely to lead to increased taxes and fewer services. And it will strip historically significant municipalities like Niagara-on-the-Lake and Fort Erie of their distinct identities and local decision-making power.

By amalgamating Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake into Niagara Falls, both towns risk having no representation in local government, leaving residents vulnerable to losing out on investments and critical services. Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa and Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop have both spoken out strongly against forced amalgamation, and I fully back their position. Continue reading →

An Election Message from the Green Party of Ontario

Posted February 4^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

In Doug Ford country, getting Ontario back in business again means paving over anything

If there’s one thing Doug Ford doesn’t want us to focus on in this election, it’s his environmental record.

And we need your help to push back before he succeeds in destroying our environment.

Let’s take a look at (the Ford Government’s) environmental record:

Continue reading →

Posted by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large

February 3^rd, 2025

If Trump and his cult following want to have a trade war with Canada, let’s hit them where it hurts!

Let’s give them more to yell and scream about than the high cost of eggs.

And while we are at it, let’s do everything we can to support local shops and businesses that we know are owned and operated by our fellow Canadians. If the American businesses don’t like it, let them complain to the bully who started all of this – Donald Trump.

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

While Ontario Premier Doug Ford has ordered LCBO shelves to be cleared of alcoholic beverages made in the U.S.A., Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates wants to make sure those shelves are re-stocked with Ontario-made beverages

“People want to buy local, plain and simple,” says Gates.

News from the Campaign of Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

Posted February 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates wants to make sure that these LCBO shelves, now empty of U.S.-made alcoholic beverages are quickly re-stocked with Ontario-made beverages

NIAGARA FALLS, Ontario – New Democrat Wayne Gates, who has represented the riding of Niagara Falls since 2014, is calling on the LCBO to restock its shelves with made-in-Ontario wines and spirits.

While the LCBO is currently removing American products from its shelves and catalogue in response to the U.S. President Donald Trump’s order to impose tariffs on Canadian  goods, what the retail outlet does with that freed up space is equally important.

“Let’s leave no empty shelves in the LCBO. Ontario’s wine industry produces some of the best wines in the world – let’s take this opportunity to showcase Niagara and Ontario,” said Gates. Continue reading →

“I’m excited about becoming a Bee City (town) in order to protect and preserve our natural heritage. We are the preeminent community in Niagara in terms of environmental protection, and this helps us to continue on that path. I’m very pleased about this.”
– Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop

News from the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario

Posted February 3rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper At Niagara At Large – Here is a bit of good news for a change.  And here is a High Five to Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop and his council for taking this initiative. Let’s hope that other municipalities in the Niagara region do the same and follow up with real actions to protect bees and to create and protect their habitat.)

FORT ERIE in Niagara, Ontario – The Town of Fort Erie has applied to become a Bee City Community through Bee City Canada. This initiative directly aligns with the Council’s dedication to environmental and climate change resiliency as identified in the Corporate Strategic Plan.

By becoming a Bee City Community, Fort Erie demonstrates its commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of pollinator populations, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable future for all. Continue reading →

‘Between January and October 2024, 48,456 Automated Speed Enforcement tickets were issued with an average fine of $116.02 imposed.’

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted February 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Roadside radar cameras like this are picking off speeders across Niagara

Niagara, Ontario – Results from the first full year of Niagara Region’s Automated Speed Enforcement Program show that drivers are slowing down in Community Safety Zones.

Launched in September of 2023, the Automated Speed Enforcement Program has been rotating four cameras through its first set of 13 Community Safety Zones.

Traffic monitoring data from before, during and after Automated Speed Enforcement cameras have been active in an area shows positive results in both slowing down drivers and reducing the number of speeding vehicles across the region, specifically: Continue reading →

We need to prioritize consumers, not energy companies

News from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a not-for-profit citizens group dedicated to fighting for a cleaner, greener environment

Posted February 3rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Earlier this January, the Ontario government announced a whopping $285 million handout to TC Energy for pre-development work for its proposed pumped storage facility on the Niagara Escarpment near Meaford, Ontario – a project that would cost electricity consumers $4-7 billion.

We support expanding storage options, but even the Independent Electricity System Operator says it’s not the best option. In fact, they say it  doesn’t compare favorably to alternatives like battery storage and won’t provide net benefits to Ontario’s electricity system or ratepayers. Continue reading →

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I encourage everyone to learn more about Black Canadian history and reflect on the challenges and accomplishments of Black Canadians. Let us recommit to building a country where every Canadian can succeed and have their voices heard.”- Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

For a listing of Black History Month Events in the St. Catharines/Niagara Area, click on the following link – Black History Month – St. Catharines Downtown Association 

Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement at the start of Black History Month

Posted February 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

“This Februrary 1^st  marks the beginning of Black History Month – an opportunity to honour the  culture, resilience, and achievements of Black Canadians.

“In communities across Canada, Black leaders, scientists, artists, entrepreneurs, and activists have shaped our country’s history and continue to inspire its future. From the Underground Railroad, which brought freedom seekers to Canada, to trailblazers like Jean Augustine and Lincoln Alexander, Black Canadians have led the way in the fight for justice, innovation, and progress. Continue reading →

A Response To America’s War Against Canada From Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, With A Few Words from Doug Draper At Niagara At Large

Posted February 2^nd, 2025 

This February 1^st, 2025, after more than a month of threatening Canada’s sovereignty, recently inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump signed a declaration of economic warfare against Canada that is designed to wreak havoc on Canadian people and Canadian businesses from coast to coast.

Later this February 1^st, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly outlined a response to this declaration of war that he and his government planned with premiers across the country.

Continue reading →

“We can never let Trump divide us within Canada, or divide us from our allies across the world. We’re stronger together, and together is how we win this fight.”  – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

Posted February 2^nd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO  – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles released the following statement:

“Trump’s reckless tariffs are putting half a million Ontario jobs at risk. Workers, families and communities are worried about what the future holds.

“We have to defend every single job and fight back hard. We need to make sure people can keep a roof over their heads and keep putting food on the table. Continue reading →

Mishka Balsom, CEO, Greater Niagara Chamber 0f Commerce

“As the site of one of Canada’s busiest border crossings, a major exporter in manufacturing and agri-food, and as one of the country’s premier tourist destinations, much of Niagara’s prosperity has been built on the strong partnership we have always enjoyed with our American counterparts.”  – Mishka Balsom, CEO, Greater Niagara Chamber 0f Commerce

Dottie Gallagher, President & CEO, Buffalo Niagara

“Our group does not favour tariffs between our two countries. At a time of high inflation and when governments on both sides of the border have committed to fighting that inflation, this entirely avoidable economic burden to American and Canadian families must be rejected.”    – – Dottie Gallagher, President & CEO, Buffalo Niagara Partnership

“Placing a heavy tariff on all imports from our largest trading partner will raise costs and drive inflation on employers and families across the Buffalo Niagara region.”

News from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce in Niagara, Ontario

Posted February 2^nd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

The United States and Canada share a longstanding history of cross-border partnerships and business collaboration.

With deep regional economic ties, the Buffalo-Niagara Partnership, Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, and Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce jointly affirm our commitment to fostering a robust and mutually beneficial economic relationship between the United States and Canada.

We are stronger together. The trade partnership between the two countries has made both of us prosperous, and it still has untapped potential to help our economies grow. Continue reading →

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

Posted January 31^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Well the Orange monster in the White House has done it.

This January 31^st, 2025 Trump made it official that a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods crossing the border into what now passes as the United States will begin this February 1^st, 2025.

Why? Well, in large part, according to him, Canada has “treated the United States very, very badly” and has been a source of large quantities of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs that are “killing millions of American people.”

Never mind that these charges are bullshit.

Continue reading →

“Doug Ford was joined (in Niagara Falls this January 31^st) by Mat Siscoe, Mayor of St. Catharines, Jim Diodati, Mayor of Niagara Falls and Frank Campion, Mayor of  Welland, who offered their full support and endorsement of Ford and encouraged Niagara voters to send local Ontario PC candidates to Queen’s Park.”

From left, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, St. Catharines Mayor Matt Siscoe and Welland Mayor Frank Campion openly throw their support behind Doug Ford

News from the Election Campaign of Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Posted January 31^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls, Ontario— This January 31^st, 2025 , Doug Ford, leader of the Ontario PCs, announced that he will invest an additional $22 billion in the PCs’ nearly $200 billion plan to build, which is already the largest in Canadian history. Continue reading →

Mayor Wayne Redeokp’s “presentation (to the Niagara Health Board)reiterated that continuation of the Douglas Memorial Urgent Care Centre as a comprehensive healthcare “safety net” is one of Fort Erie’s top priorities.”- Fort Erie Councillor Joan Christensen

A News Release from the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario

Posted 31st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Town of Fort Erie has been steadfast and consistent in advocating for local health services to meet the needs of the community.

Mayor Redekop and town councillors attended the Niagara Health Board meeting this week on January 29, 2025, seeking support for the continuation of urgent care services beyond the opening of the South Niagara Hospital as the Fort Erie community’s primary care safety net. Continue reading →

“We need to fight like hell to protect Canadian jobs from Donald Trump. His tariffs will mean devastating job losses for hundreds of thousands of Canadians, and even higher prices at a time when families can’t take any more financial hits.”                                          – Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh

BUILD CANADIAN, BUY CANADIAN

News from Canada’s New Democratic Party Leader Jagmeet Singh

Posted January 31, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s NDP leader Jagmeet Singh (was)  alongside the Canadian Labour Congress, United Steelworkers Union and Sault worker (in Ontario this past January 30th, 2025)  to lay out a Build Canadian Buy Canadian plan, an overhaul of Canada’s procurement policies to create and keep good, unionized jobs and Canadian dollars North of the border.

Singh has also called for workers to be kept whole during a potential trade war, using every dime Canada is forced to collect in retaliatory tariffs directly to support impacted workers. Continue reading →

Ensuring long-term predictable public transit funding for the Regional Municipality of Niagara with over $35 million through the Canada Public Transit Fund

News from Canada’s Federal Government

Posted January 30^th, 2025 on Niagara At Largely

St. Catharines, Ontario — By working closely with its partners across Canada, the federal government is ensuring that more Canadians will be able to live near public transit, connecting them to jobs, services, and their communities.

This past January 29^th, 2025, the Honourable Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, Chris Bittle, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities and Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, Jim Bradley, Niagara Regional Chair, and Mat Siscoe, Mayor of St. Catharines and the chair of the Niagara Transit Commission, announced a federal investment of more than $35 million in transit funding for the Regional Municipality of Niagara, providing predictable and long-term funding. Continue reading →

Boycott U.S. Products. Cancel Any Trips To The United States. Buy From or Travel To More Friendly Regions of the World Like  Mexico, the Bahamas or Europe Instead

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

Posted January 29^th, 2025on Niagara At Large

If it wasn’t clear earlier on, it should be clear by now that the recently inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump, backed by many it not all of his more than 70 million MAGA followers, have a hate on for Canada and are prepared to show it by slapping a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian products crossing the U.S. border – a tariff that could do significant cost Canada a significant number of jobs and do major damage to the Canadian economy.

Stop buying any liquor or wine products made in the U.S.A.

Our federal and provincial governments north of the border are taking a wait and see approach before responding in kind to this tariff that Trump might slap on us as soon as this weekend or possibly in the coming week

But why should we, the people, wait?

We can stop buying American-made products now!

Continue reading →

“We’re fighting for more homes you can afford, better access to public healthcare, real climate action, and an affordable transportation plan that won’t waste billions of your tax dollars on tunnels and destructive highways like 413.”- Mike Schreiner, Ontario Green Party Leader

An Election Message from Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner

Posted January 29^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner

This is the moment we’ve been preparing for. After months of speculation, Doug Ford has called an early election.

This is our chance to change the face of politics in Ontario and work together to build a fairer future, a future full of opportunities for the people and places we love.

We have a short 29 days until the election. 29 days to make history by re-electing our seats in Guelph and Kitchener Centre and sending even more Green MPPs to Queen’s Park. Continue reading →

A News Release from the Office of the Premier of Ontario

Posted January 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO — Premier Doug Ford today confirmed that the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, has accepted the premier’s advice to sign a proclamation dissolving the 43rd Parliament of the Province of Ontario, effective as of 4:00 p.m. this January 28th, 2025.

Pursuant to the provisions of the Election Act, the Lieutenant Governor also called for the issuance of writs for the general election to be issued January 29, 2025, and named February 27, 2025, as the date of Ontario’s next general election.

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

” By working directly with communities like Niagara, we are empowering local leaders to implement solutions that meet their unique needs and create pathways to stability for those experiencing homelessness.” – Chris Bittle, Parliamentary Secretary to the Federal  Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities and Member of Parliament for St. Catharines 

News from the Constituency Office of Federal Liberal MPP Chris Bittle for the Riding of St. Catharines

Posted January 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines Federal Liberal MP Chris Bittle

Thorold, Ontario – Today (this January 28^th, 2025), the federal government and Regional Municipality of Niagara announced that an agreement to support people living without homes, including in encampments, has been signed as part of the Unsheltered Homelessness and Encampments Initiative (UHEI).

Through this agreement, the federal government will contribute $4.412,730 million in funding while the Regional Municipality of Niagara will match the federal funding of over $4.4 million over two years. Continue reading →

“With the increasing pressure and overwhelming demand on our healthcare system, it is crucial that we have a fully-serviced Welland Hospital and a 24/7 Port Colborne Urgent Care Centre.” – Jeff Burch, NDP MPP for the Riding of Niagara Centre

A News Release from the Constituency Office of Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

Posted January 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

THOROLD – Doug Ford has decided to put his own political interests ahead of Ontarians by calling an early election, despite 500,000 jobs being at risk.

“At a time when Ontario’s economy is uncertain and hundreds of thousands of jobs are on the line, Ford is prioritizing his own power over the needs of the people,” said Jeff Burch.

“Together, we can turn the page on Doug Ford and elect a government that will work for you: fixing healthcare, making housing more affordable, and lifting workers and families out of poverty.” Continue reading →

A Call-Out from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Posted January 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) is pleased to announce the launch of its recruitment campaign for the Public Advisory Committee (PAC), a dedicated group of volunteer citizen representatives from diverse sectors across the Niagara Peninsula watershed.

Established in 2014, the PAC has played an invaluable role in providing sector-based perspectives, guiding key NPCA projects, programs, and initiatives. Meeting approximately four times per year, the PAC is poised to make an even greater impact in the years ahead, ensuring collaborative and inclusive input into conservation efforts alongside NPCA’s Board of Directors and staff.

Being part of the PAC offers unique benefits, including:

Continue reading →

Historic $95.5 Million in Provincial Funding Supports Critical Local Capital Projects Across Region

News from the Constituency Office of Niagara West Ford Government MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Posted January 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara West Ford government MPP Sam Oosterhoff

WELLAND – The Ontario government is investing nearly $96 million in capital funding for three new elementary schools in Niagara, including Welland-Thorold Elementary School, Thorold East Elementary School and South Welland Elementary School.

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West, announced the capital funding for the District School Board of Niagara projects, which will support hard working families across the region.

The provincial funding will support the creation of 2,060 elementary student spaces and 147 licensed child care spaces in Welland and Thorold as part of the government’s commitment to building modern learning spaces for Ontario students. Continue reading →

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles says she is ready to take on Doug Ford and win.

“Doug Ford doesn’t deserve a third term. In the coming weeks, (the people of Ontario) have the power to choose a better Ontario. We have the power to fight back against Trump, to turn the page on Doug Ford, and to vote for a Premier who is on your side.”– Marit Stiles, Ontario NDP Leader

A Message from Ontario NDP Official Opposition Leater Marit Stiles

Posted January 25^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

TORONTO – Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP are ready to take on Doug Ford’s Conservatives and replace them with a government that’s on your side.

Earlier (this past Friday, January 24^th, 2025), Ford confirmed that he will call a snap election in the middle of a tariff threat. Stiles has released the following statement:

“While our province faces a grave threat with half a million jobs at risk, Doug Ford sees an opportunity to fight for one job – his own. He thinks he can con Ontarians with an early election to escape his record — but we won’t let him.

“It’s time for a change in Ontario.

Continue reading →

“As social media and those who control its platforms seek to distort the horrors of the Holocaust and platform Holocaust denialism, it is now more important than ever to remember.”

A Statement from the Office of Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Posted January 27^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

“Eighty years ago this (January 27th, 2025 , the Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp was liberated. Within its confines, over one million Jewish people had been barbarically murdered. As the largest camp under Hitler’s regime, it became one of the most important symbols of the Holocaust.

“Let me be unequivocally clear – the Holocaust was one of the darkest chapters of human history. The Nazi regime systemically and senselessly murdered six million Jewish people, accounting for two thirds of the Jewish population in Europe.

Continue reading →

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

Posted January 26th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Cecile Richards, an American activist who at least  some NAL readers may know as a passionate voice for women’s rights and as a former president of Planned Parenthood – a citizens-based organization that describes itself as “a leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people,” asa  leading provider of sex education  – died this past January 20th, 2025 at age 67 following a battle with brain cancer.

In a statement announcing her death, members of her family shared some words Cecile Richards used frequently as a call to action for the betterment of humankind. Continue reading →

Protect Our Planet & The Natural Heritage In Our Province-  Vote for Biodiversity and Climate Resilience

A Call-Out To All Ontario Voters from the non-profit environmental advocacy group, Ontario Nature

Posted January 26^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario is headed for an early election. Premier Ford has said he will trigger the election on Wednesday, January 29th.

As residents of Ontario, we must make nature conservation an election issue.

While issues related to affordability and tariff threats from the United States are likely to dominate headlines and the election campaign, we cannot ignore the interrelated biodiversity and climate crises. All those issues are foundational to our long-tern health and wellbeing, and economic prosperity. Continue reading →

News from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission

Posted January 25^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls, Ontario – The Niagara Falls Illumination Board will unite fans on both sides of the border this weekend by lighting up Niagara Falls in blue, red and white in support of the Buffalo Bills appearance in the AFC Championship game.

The illuminations are scheduled for this Saturday, January 25th at 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., as well as Sunday at 10:00 p.m. Each display will run for 15 minutes. All are invited to come down, cheer on the team and share in the excitement.

The Horsehoe Falls in Niagara all lit up in Buffalo Bills colours

Buffalo Bills vs. Kansas City Chiefs AFC Championship game

Date and time of game: Sunday, Jan. 26, 2024 ; Time: 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT ; Game: Buffalo Bills vs. Kansas City Chiefs ; TV channel: CBS

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

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

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

Posted January 24th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A bid  by St. Catharines Regional Councillor Haley Bateman to have Niagara’s Regional Council oppose use of a ‘not-withstanding’ clause in Canadian law that some municipalities across Ontario, including Welland, Niagara Falls and St. Catharines, are now set to employ to over-ride the constitutional rights of homeless people and tear apart their encampments was turned down by the Council this January 23^rd.

Niagara At Large will post more details on this issue in a news commentary early this coming week.

Please Stay Tuned

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

The group that first came to fame backing up rockabilly singer Ronnie Hawkins and, later, Bob Dylan before finding stardom on its own.

A Brief Tribute by Doug Draper

Posted January 24^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Members of The Band with Garth Hudson, second from right

They were, quite simply, right up there at the top with The Guess Who and few others, as one of the greatest rock groups ever to come out of Canada.

And with the death of Windsor, Ontario-born Garth Hudson at age 86 – the last surviving member of the group that became known around the world as ‘The Band’ – the group’s ‘Last Waltz’ (the name of the award-winning film-documentary of their farewell show together in 1076) is truly over. Continue reading →

This January, 2025  Marks 100-Year Anniversary of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre Groundbreaking. Stay Tune For Month After Month of  Celebratory Events

‘A special celebration will take place in April, marking the birthday of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre founder Michael Shea. Born in 1859 in St. Catharines, Ontario, as a young boy Michael and his family moved to Buffalo’s Old First Ward.

St. Catharines, Ontario-born Shea’s Theatre founder Michael Shea, holding shovel at 1925 groundbreaking for the iconic Buffalo, N.Y. theatre

He worked as a laborer on the docks of Buffalo’s waterfront and later owned a saloon before beginning in the theatre entertainment industry, with Shea’s Buffalo being his crowning work.’

News from Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo, New York

Posted January 24th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – As much as this commentator  has joined others in encouraging boycotts of American-made products and travel to the United States in response to Trump’s threats against Canada, one exception I would make is the performing arts, art and craft festivals and garden walks in the Buffalo, New York area where it is likely that almost everyone in those creative fields voted against Trump in the November 2025 presidential election. It makes no sense to me that people in the arts, on either side of the border, should be punished in the war Trump has threatened to wage against Canada.)

Shea’s Performing Arts Center has kicked off the centennial celebration of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre. The commencement took place on January 15, 2025, which marks the 100th anniversary of the day ground was broken on construction of the historic theatre.

The launch marks the beginning of two years of centennial festivities planned at the theatre and in the community during 2025 and 2026. Built in one year and one day, Shea’s Buffalo Theatre first opened to the public on January 16, 1926.
Brian Higgins, President & CEO of Shea’s Performing Arts Center said. Continue reading →

“The president (Trumps) is talking clearly about territorial expansion (including in Canada), and while some people are saying that it’s just talk meant get a rise out of people, we can’t take that chance,” – Associate Brock University Professor Blayne Haggart

A News Release from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted January 23^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Over the past two months, Trump has repeatedly threatened Canada with annexation

Concerns about aggression, authoritarianism and the future of democracy in North America are being shared by experts in Brock University’s Department of Political Science following U.S. President Donald Trump’s second inauguration.

Associate Professor Blayne Haggart says the rhetoric around expanding the country’s borders in Trump’s inaugural address was particularly shocking.

Continue reading →

Even Lady Liberty wants to leave the U.S.A.

Posted by Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

January 22nd, 2025

I think it is a very safe bet that I am not the only one who would feel that this song by Davie Bowie nails it right now.

To hear the song and watch the video produced for it, click on the screen below –

Do you want to cross the border to the United States right now?

Buy Canadian. Send thetens-o-millions of Trumpies in America a Message. Let’s Boycott Anything and Everything We Can That Is Made In The U.S.A.

• Doug Draper, reporter/publisher, 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