Niagara At Large

“Councillor Garcia was a leader who believed in the power of community and worked tirelessly to champion the causes that mattered most to the people he served. His dedication to issues like the arts, maintaining the heritage of Port Dalhousie and enhancing access to our beautiful Lake Ontario and beaches left an indelible mark on our city.”                                                                – from a Statement circulated on Monday, December 9th, 2024 by St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe

From the City of St. Catharines with a Brief Foreword from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted December 10th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

A Few Words of Tribute From Doug Draper – As I struggle to write these words, I am still trying to process this.

Carlos Garcia

When I opened my inbox in the late afternoon of this past Monday, November 9th to an email with the heading; ‘City of St. Catharines Pays Tribute to Councillor N. Carlos Garcia’ I froze for a few seconds before saying; “Oh no. Don’t tell me what I think I am about to read. I can’t believe it.”

I would not be surprised if many others who received this news reacted the same way.

With the sudden, untimely passing of Carlos Garcia, a professional urban planner and (alongside  his good friend and fellow council colleague Bruce Williamson)  a  representative on St. Catharines council for  Port Dalhousie (Ward 6), his city and all of Niagara have lost a very wise and caring voice for growing our communities in ways that are people-friendly and affordable, and that  protect and preserve their history and character.

Words like “passionate” and “principled” may seem overused at times, but Carlos was the  living definition of what those words mean when it came to his efforts to protect and preserve our man-made and natural heritage in this region. Continue reading →

A  Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper, followed by a Disturbing News Segment Recently Aired on CBC’s News Program, The National

Posted December 10^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

A file photo, crica 2021, from St. Catharines Liberal MP Chris Bittle’s Facebook page, of the ugly spray painting found on his car, in the driveway of his home.

I recently wrote and posted a commentary on Niagara At Large  headlined; “Why Are People Angry? It’s The Economy Stupid?’

The main objective of that commentary was to encourage  more of our political representatives at all levels of government –  many of whom have become the targets of a growing amount of public anger –  that they ought to do a better job of connecting with their constituents and addressing the root causes of that anger.

In that same commentary, I also sent out a message to any  to my fellow citizens who read news outlets like this that acting on that anger with ugly language, including threats of violence, or with vandalism or worse, is not the answer in a civil, democratic society we should all strive to protect and preserve in a country like Canada. Continue reading →

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

Posted December 9^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

Queen’s Park – Today (on December 9th, 2024) during question period, MPP Burch urged the government to address requests from Port Colborne and Welland residents to restore and expand local healthcare services.

The Welland Hospital has been without after-hours emergency surgical services since February 27, 2023. “The people of Welland are calling for a new full-service hospital to replace their aging facility,” Burch said.

“Niagara Health requires a planning grant to begin this process. However, this Minister has refused to respond to our request for a planning grant or the community’s calls to restore emergency surgical services”. Continue reading →

Report provides insights into food price trends, affordability challenges and the broader forces shaping Canada’s food systems.

Among the Key Drivers – Climate events: Ongoing droughts, extreme weather and the anticipated effects of a weak La Niña are expected to disrupt crop yields and supply chains.

News from the The Agri-Food Analytics Lab (AAL), a panel of experts researching food issues in Canada

Posted December 9th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Food prices in Canada are projected to rise by three to five per cent in 2025, adding up to $801 more to the annual grocery bill for an average family of four, according to Canada’s Food Price Report 2025, released this December 5th, 2024.

The report, a collaboration between Dalhousie University, the University of Guelph, the University of British Columbia and the University of Saskatchewan, provides insights into food price trends, affordability challenges and the broader forces shaping Canada’s food systems. Continue reading →

“Beating Doug Ford will take more than just determination. It will take the resources to go toe-to-toe with a (Ford) campaign backed by wealthy elites. … Our grassroots support is building a campaign strong enough to stand up to Ford’s millions. Every contribution, no matter the size, is a step toward building the change Ontarians are ready for.”                                                           – Ontario NDP Provincial Director Kevin Beaulieu

News from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Party

Posted December 9^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO – In just the past 60 days, the Ontario NDP raised over $825,000 from 15,640 contributions, showcasing the growing trust Ontarians are placing in Marit Stiles and the NDP to replace Doug Ford’s Conservatives after six years of schemes and scandals.

The Ontario NDP’s strong grassroots support, with an average contribution of $52, underscores growing confidence in Marit Stiles’ positive vision for the province and her campaign for a government that will build homes, hire doctors, fix schools, and make life more affordable. Continue reading →

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

Posted December 9th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines’ City Hall in the downtown area, all lit up for the Holiday Season

Here’s a little something extra to be cheerful about: Visitors to Downtown St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie will soon enjoy free parking on weekday afternoons during most of December.

Recognizing the holiday season can be among the most expensive times of year for residents, the City of St. Catharines is offering free afternoon parking at more than 1,000 City parking spots in Downtown St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie from Monday, Dec. 9 to Friday, Dec. 27. Continue reading →

By Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted December 6^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

With so much of the bad news that barrages us these days, I thought I would end the week by writing up something I hope you find to be a little happier. So here goes –

Nothing says the beginning of the Holiday Season more for millions of people across North America than the opening night lighting of the Christmas Tree in Mid-Town Manhattan, New York’s Rockefeller Centre.

Rejoicing in the magic and splendor of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in Mid-Town Manhattan, New York, New York.

I can say, from first-hand experience, that the trees the city lights up each year at this site are a sight to behold. They are enough to make a grown person believe in Santa Clause again, if only for the few magical moments you stand beneath the glow of their 50,000 sparkling lights. Continue reading →

Ontario NDP Leader, Demands The Premier Remove Kinga Surma As Minister Of Infrastructure.

A Statement from Marit Stiles, Ontario NDP Official Opposition Leader

Posted December 6^h, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Place, along the Lake Ontario shoreline in Toronto was once truly viewed by millions of visitors to it as a peoples’ place – public commons for all to spend the day and enjoy. Now thanks to Ford and his masters in the development industry, pieces of it are being turned into a parking lot, a private spa and what is next for what is left? And yes Ford is using billions of dollars of our tax money, and counting, to pay for this vandalism of this great public place.

“After wasting billions of taxpayer dollars subsidizing a luxury spa on Toronto’s waterfront, and tipping the scales with an unfair procurement process, the (Ontario Ford government) Minister responsible is missing in action.

“Minister Surma has repeatedly refused to take responsibility for the mess that her Ministry has made, but enough is enough. She needs to resign. And if she won’t, the Premier (Doug Ford) needs to take responsibility, do the right thing, and fire his Infrastructure Minister.”

A scathing report from the Auditor General (released (this past December 3^rd, 2024) found the Ontario Place redevelopment project has been rife with preferential treatment and out-of-control costs.

For a related piece posted on Niagara At Large, click on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2024/12/03/its-time-for-ford-government-to-face-the-consequences-for-its-corruption/ 

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 Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted December 5^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is planning to take draconian legal steps, if necessary, to break up homeless encampments.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has sent a brief note to mayors of 12 cities across the province, including Niagara’s St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati and Welland Mayor Frank Campion, that he is prepared to act on their call to use the notwithstanding clause in the Canadian Constitution, if necessary, to override the freedoms and rights of homeless people to break up their encampments.

“Our government shares your concerns about the need to keep our children, families and communities safe,” Ford told the mayors in a note he circulated to them this December 5th. 2024.”That’s why we are acting to put an end to the public disorder, drug use and trafficking and loss of public space that have resulted from the widespread growth in encampments.” Continue reading →

“What we should do is eliminate hospital parking fees – for workers, doctors, patients, and families alike- and instead fully fund public health care.” – Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

A News Release from the Constituency Office of Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates whose riding also includes Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake, with a Foreword from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted December 4^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

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

So you say you want another tax cut?

I do too, but not the way our senior levels of government – Liberal, Conservative and for one term in Ontario, the NDP – have been doing it for the past 30 or more years where the most generous cuts have gone to the rich and super-rich while the rest of see ours cut just a wee little bit.

And so it went, election after election, with one government after another promising more tax cuts until the progressive income tax system that worked so well for working and middle class people decades after the Second World War, where those who made more paid proportionally more, gave way to user fees that were slapped evenly on everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Continue reading →

“Wind and solar are the cheapest sources of new electricity generation. …  Ontarians deserve an open and robust conversation about the choices the province can make in meeting future demand for electricity.”

A Statement by Alienor Rougeot, Environmental Defence’s Senior Program Manager, Climate and Energy

Posted November 3^rd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ontario –  We are disappointed to see the Ontario government make unsupported claims about the proposed federal clean electricity regulations.

By refusing to admit the economic, employment and environmental benefits of clean energy, the government is depriving Ontario ratepayers of more affordable bills and making our electricity dirtier than it has been in years.

The federal government’s proposed regulations to reduce emissions in electricity generation are achievable without breaking the bank. In fact, studies show that clean energy is a more affordable option than continuing to rely on fossil fuels. Continue reading →

Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Party’s Leader Responds to Auditor General’s “Bombshell Report” On Ford Government’s “Gross Financial Mismanagement and Negligence”

Posted December 3rd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles

QUEEN’S PARK – Marit Stiles, Leader of the Ontario NDP, released the following statement on the Auditor General’s new bombshell report, which outlines gross financial mismanagement and negligence from the Ford government on multiple files:

“Preferential treatment, wasting billions of taxpayer dollars and tipping the scales to favour insiders – the seriousness of this report cannot be overstated. It’s time for the Premier to face the consequences of their corruption – starting by firing the Minister of Infrastructure.” Continue reading →

“I have never seen this intensity of anger.”                           – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

A  Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted December 1^st, 2024 on Niagara At Large

“There sure are a lot of angry people out there,” I’ve heard and read a good number of our political representatives, at all levels of government, say in recent years.

So much so that at the darkest end of the spectrum, some politicians have been the recipients of nasty and sometimes even threatening messages, and some have had their cars and homes vandalized and in the case of provincial and federal representatives, have had glass doors and windows at their constituency offices smashed.

The past few years have also seen more than the usual number of outbursts from members of the public attending municipal council meetings in Niagara and elsewhere.

Aside from the verbal outbursts, which are relatively harmless and, as much as many politicians may not like them, fall within the lines of free expression, I abhor any and all acts of or threats of vandalism and violence. Continue reading →

A Statement from St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

Posted December 2^nd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

QUEEN’S PARK – MPP Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines) has introduced a motion calling on the government to ban the installation of paid parking meters at rental housing properties.

“Tenants in my community, and the loved ones who visit them, are being charged extortionate rates for the privilege of parking at their own home,” said Stevens.

“These are people who are already facing soaring rental costs – now they’re being nickel and dimed by big corporate landlords.”

Continue reading →

A Call for Action from Canadians for Tax Fairness, a non-profit citizens organization standing up for “a light of truth in dark times”

Posted December 2nd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

With the recent political outcome south of the border, it’s been a bleak month for many. As our own election looms on the horizon and misinformation continues to spread, we’re gearing up to do all we can to share facts with the masses in the coming months.

Keeping hope alive about tax justice in Canada has never been more important. Here’s what we’ve been up to this November. Continue reading →

 “The burden (of the strike) is falling disproportionately on small businesses and entrepreneurs, especially those in e-commerce. Many of them were counting on Canada Post to deliver their orders for the holiday season.” – Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce CEO Mishka Balsom

A News Release from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Posted November 29^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce CEO Misha Balsma

Niagara, Ontario – The Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) has urged the Government of Canada to intervene in the Canada Post strike.

The GNCC’s request has been echoed by other Chambers of Commerce across the country, including the Canadian and Ontario Chambers.

The strike has now shut down operations at Canada Post for more than two weeks. The Chamber is urging the government to intervene and resolve the dispute fairly, and to restore mail service immediately. Continue reading →

A Brief One from Doug Draper

Posted November 29^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

George Harrison during his solo years.

While sitting at home, watching a tribute concert for former Beatle George Harrison on the eve of his untimely death 23 years ago this November 29^th at age 58, one of his songs, more than all the other great ones he wrote, hit a chord for our times.

“Give me love. … Give me peace on earth.…Give me hope, help me cope with this heavy load,” so some of the lyrics of the song go.

Continue reading →

“Doug Ford has been in power for over six years, and during that time, our hospital system has been underfunded by billions, we have a crisis in staffing…, and we have had a record number of emergency room and urgent care closures across the province, including in Niagara in Fort Erie and Port Colborne.”                    – Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

A Statement from Wayne Gates, MPP for a Niagara Falls, Ontario Riding that includes Fort Erie and Niagara-on-Lake

Posted November 28th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

QUEENS PARK – MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) released the following statement to call for action on the crisis in primary care, (https://x.com/Wayne_Gates/status/1861821775941718134) as 2.5 million Ontarians remain without a family doctor:

“More than 2.5 million Ontarians do not currently have a family doctor, and in less than two years, that number will almost double. Almost 40 per cent of doctors currently practicing are considering retirement in the next few years. Continue reading →

‘Highway 413 is an environmental wrecking ball that’s going to pave over 2,000 acres of prime farmland, slice through the Greenbelt, and crank up climate pollution.’ – Ontario’s Green Party

From the Green Party of Ontario

Posted November 28^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

This week, the Ford government just passed Bill 212.

You’ve likely heard about how it gives the Ford government powers to rip up bike lanes, but what’s flying under the radar is that this Bill will fast-track Doug Ford’s sprawl-inducing vanity project Highway 413.

Continue reading →

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

Posted November 27^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates, whose riding includes Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake

QUEENS PARK –MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls), Ontario NDP critic for Long-Term Care, called out Ford’s government for failing to meet their own goals (https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/long-term-care-hands-on-care-target-ontario-1.7392310) of providing four hours of care per day for every resident in long-term care.

“We know what the cause of the issue is – the staffing crisis that this Premier has created in long-term care,” said Gates. 

“According to this government’s own documents, we need an additional 13,200 nurses, and 37,700 PSWs, and we’re not hitting that target. Our seniors in long-term care deserve better. When will this government stop breaking their own promises and deliver on the care our seniors need and deserve?” Continue reading →

Premier Doug Ford Says Tariff Would Be Devastating to Canada’s Economy

Posted November 26, 2024 on Niagara At Large

“A 25 per cent tariff would be devastating to workers and jobs in both Canada and the U.S. The federal government needs to take the situation at our border seriously. We need a Team Canada approach and response—and we need it now. Prime Minister Trudeau must call an urgent meeting with all premiers. – Ontario Premier Doug Ford

A Brief Footnote from Niagara At Large publisher Doug Draper – Over and over again I stressed during  the last months of this November’s  U.S. presidential election that a Trump win would have terrible  consequences for people on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border, and here we go. Continue reading →

NDP MPPs mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and call for IPV to be declared an epidemic

A Statement from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Party

Posted November 25^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP MPPs Lisa Gretzky, Kristyn Wong-Tam, Jill Andrew, and Peggy Sattler, co-sponsors of the NDP’s Bill 173 (https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-173), released the following statement on behalf of the Ontario NDP caucus to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and call for intimate partner violence (IPV) to be declared an epidemic:

“Our call has always been crystal clear – we need to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic in Ontario, and we need to do it immediately. Every moment that we delay, more people are put at risk, and fewer resources are being allocated to help survivors escape or recover from violence. Continue reading →

“The redevelopment of Toronto Power embodies the essence of Niagara Parks’ historic mandate as the environmental and cultural stewards of the Niagara River corridor,” said David Adames, CEO of Niagara Parks Commission. “Through private-sector investment, we will preserve a significant piece of Niagara’s history while growing tourism to the region.”

News from the Niagara Parks Commission in Niagara Falls, Ontario

Posted November 25^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

NIAGARA FALLS, Ontario — The Ontario government is giving the greenlight to Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) to redevelop the Toronto Power Generating Station (TPGS) into a five-star boutique hotel near the brink of Niagara Falls, which will create good-paying, sustainable jobs and boost local economies in the region.

The historic Toronto Hydro Power Generating Station, located on Niagara Parks lands along the Niagara River and just above the Horseshoe Falls

Once complete, the new attraction will accommodate the growing number of tourists visiting Niagara and will include amenities such as indoor and outdoor public viewing areas and a free museum and art gallery. Continue reading →

And This One Right Across the Road From An Elementary School

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

Posted November 21^st 2024 on Niagara At Large

Seems it’s not good enough for the City of Thorold to already have two McDonald’s fast food outlets located just a few minutes’ drive away from its downtown area.

The Niagara, Ontario  municipality of Thorold gets its first McDonald’s, opened this November, 2024. photo by Doug Draper

Of course, the McDonald’s outlets I am referring to are all located in neighboring St. Catharines – one on St. David’s Road across from the Niagara Region headquarters, and the other below the Niagara Escarpment on Glendale Avenue across from the Penn Centre shopping mall – and Thorold, for the 40 some odd years I have been living here, seems to have this thing about not feeling whole as a municipality unless it has its own Post Office, Beer Store, LCBO (which, in the case of that one, it lost some time ago) and an assortment  of brand name chain outlets like Tim Horton’s and McDonald’s. Continue reading →

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted November 22nd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

An October 2016 cover of a New York City tabloid newspaper, Trump’s old home town. Didn’t matter what he said on that Access Hollywood tape. Tens-of-millions of Americans, including women and Evangelicals Christians voted for him to be their President anyway.

“Yeah, that’s her with the gold,” says then, first-time U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump as he is about to cross paths with young woman. “I better use some Tic Tacs just in case I start kissing her. You know, I’m automatically attracted to beautiful (women) — I just start kissing them. It’s like a magnet. Just kiss. I don’t even wait. And when you’re a star, they let you do it. You can do anything. … Grab ’em by the pussy. You can do anything.”                                    – from that infamous  Access Hollywood tape, recorded in 2005 and released by some anonymous source just one month before the 2016 U.S. presidential election which Trump won.

Weren’t these words something to behold, especially coming out of the mouth of a future President of the United States.

In its choice of Presidents, America has gone from the soaring eloquence of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s “you have nothing to fear but fear itself” and John F. Kennedy’s  “ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country,” to the likes of misogynistic garbage.

How far can you sink? It’s almost enough to have you joining the anti-science wing of Trump’s MAGA cult and throwing out Darwin’s whole theory of evolution.

There was a time when the surfacing of anything remotely close to trash talk like this, coming from the mouth of someone seeking high office, would blow up a political career. Continue reading →

“Our government can’t set prices, but we can give Canadians, and especially working Canadians, more money back in their pocket. With a tax break for all Canadians and the Working Canadians Rebate, we’re making sure you can buy the things you need and save for the things you want.” – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

News from the Office of Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau

Posted November 22^nd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

The past few years have been challenging. It feels like the price of everything has gone up. And while inflation is cooling and interest rates are dropping, we know that Canadians aren’t feeling that in their household budgets yet.

Our government can’t set prices at the checkout, but we can give Canadians more money in their pocket – to help them afford the things they need and save for the things they want.

Starting December 14, 2024, we’re giving a tax break to all Canadians. With a GST/HST exemption across the country, Canadians will be able to buy essentials like groceries, snacks, and kids clothing – all tax-free. Continue reading →

How Much Will Darlington’s New Nuclear Reactors Cost?

A News Release from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a non-profit citizens group dedicated to fighting for cleaner, more affordable ways of protecting our environment.

Posted November 21^st, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford seems to have no problem spending our tax money as if there was an endless supply.

A Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Funny things when politicians are spending someone else’s money – meaning ours. Many of them, to use that old cliché, have a habit of spending it like drunken sailors.

One of the interesting things that too many voters either don’t seem to be aware of or don’t  care to give enough consideration to is that politicians on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border who are on the conservative side of the ledger  and who parade themselves as being better financial managers, have a long record of spending us into as much debt and often even more than their liberal counterparts.

That brings me to the Ford government in Ontario that, as of last year, has racked the net debt fof the province up to a stunning amount of more than $400 billion. – leaving even the highly conservative Canadian think tank, The Fraser Institute, calling Ford’s spending habits so “irresponsible,” that if they continue, they will leave Ontario residents facing some of  the highest income tax rates in North America. Continue reading →

‘By peddling falsehoods about bike lanes, the Ontario government seeks to distract Ontarians from provisions in Bill 212 that will fast-track an unnecessary and expensive highway while undermining the Greenbelt.’   from a Statement by Environmental Defence  

A Statement by Tim Gray, Executive Director, Environmental Defence Canada with a Brief Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted, November 11^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

A Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – As part of what seems to a relentless, never-ending effort to –  as Ontario Premier Doug Ford put it some years ago – take out “chunks” of province’s precious Greenbelt lands for development, Ford and his Conservatives try one move after another to accomplish that goal.

Even while the RCMP continues with a criminal investigation against alleged wrongdoings involving an earlier plan to gut Greenbelt lands, this premier and his minions are determined to pave over Greenbelt lands that make up some of the best natural heritage and food-growing lands in Canada anyway. Continue reading →

Sign A Petition To Urge The Province and Local Municipalities Not To Use Forceful Means To Tear Apart Encampments for the Homeless

‘The Niagara Poverty Reduction Network does not support the use of the notwithstanding clause to dismantle encampments by force; as was suggested by Premier Ford and recently supported by Niagara Falls, Welland, and St. Catharines mayors. Using police force and the threat of jail to clear encampments is neither compassionate nor effective.”

A Call-Out To All of Us from the Niagara Poverty Reduction Network

Posted November 20^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

As the gap between the haves and the have-nots grows, so do the number of homeless camps across Niagara and the rest of Ontario

Niagara, Ontario – The Niagara Poverty Reduction Network (NPRN) supports the position of the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness on the use of force and threat of criminalization to clear encampments. As a network we encourage everyone to sign this petition and share it through your social channels.

Across Ontario, the rising cost of living and unaffordable housing have forced more people into homelessness, with many resorting to encampments in public spaces. But tents in parks are not the answer—everyone deserves a safe and stable home. Continue reading →

Niagara Resident and Dedicated Voice for the Environment and for More Affordable and People Friendly Community Planning  Patrick Robson – December 11, 1961 to August 25, 2024

From the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Network, a coalition of individual citizens and groups dedicated to preserving the natural riches on Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment lands

Posted November 19^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large on the same day the Network sent this tribute in

Patrick Robson, a model public servant and teacher who cared passionately about the community and protecting and preserving what is left of our natural heritage.

In 1971, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) launched the Man and the Biosphere Program.

A decade and a half later in 1987, Patrick Robson stepped into the role of Community Development Planner for the Niagara Escarpment Commission.

With his steady hand, it’s no surprise the Niagara Escarpment earned its UNESCO Man and the Biosphere designation in 1990. Continue reading →

Home redevelopment will bring 256 modern long-term care beds to the community

“When the doors open, this 256-bed home will increase capacity for high-quality seniors’ care in the region by welcoming more than 100 new residents who are currently awaiting long-term care.” – Dr. Michael Guerriere
President and CEO, Extendicare

News from Ontario’s Ford Government

Posted November 19th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines, Ontario  — Construction is underway on the redevelopment of Extendicare St. Catharines’ new 256 bed long-term care home in St. Catharines.

Tyler Allsopp, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Long-Term Care, is joined by Mat Siscoe, Mayor of the City of St. Catharines; Caleb Ratzlaff, Councillor for the City of St. Catharines; Dr. Michael Guerriere, President and CEO of Extendicare; Helen Van Dyk, Home Administrator at St. Catharines Extendicare; Barb Todd, Resident at Extendicare St. Catharines, and Gavin Simpson, Extendicare St. Catharines Family Member. Photo courtesy of Office of Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff

This project was a recipient of the Construction Funding Subsidy top-up, part of the Ontario government’s commitment to build 58,000 new and upgraded long-term care beds across the province. Continue reading →

An Invite to All from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission in Niagara Falls

Posted November 12^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

All photos courtesy of Niagara Parks Ontario

•     – Niagara Parks to host free outdoor event to kick-off the 42^nd annual Winter Festival of Lights on November 16, 2024
•     – The family-friendly celebration features an unforgettable high-energy performance from Circus Orange with aerialists, acrobats, a special musical guest and more
•     – Visitors are invited to explore the illuminated pathways and interactive lighting displays along the Niagara Parkway
•     – Guests of all ages will enjoy free programming throughout the festival including performances from Chris McKhool, violin sensation and winner of the Canadian Folk Music Award for Children’s Album of the Year
•     – For more information about opening night and upcoming festival events visit  ## niagaraparks.com/WFOL ## (https://www.niagaraparks.com/WFOL) 

Niagara Falls, ON  – Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival, the Winter Festival of Lights presented by Niagara Falls Tourism, returns to illuminate the Niagara River corridor with an eight-kilometre wonderland of twinkling lights, captivating performances and family-friendly fun from November 16, 2024, to January 5, 2025. Continue reading →

“The Ontario NDP’s plan would reverse unfair provincial downloads and bring stability to municipal finances through fair cost-sharing of municipal-provincial priorities.”

News from the Office of Ontario NDP Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles

Posted November 18^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

QUEEN’S PARK – Marit Stiles, Leader of the Ontario NDP, will give Ford the opportunity to say yes to a New Deal for Municipalities, putting the motion to a vote at Queen’s Park this November 18th.

“You deserve a government that makes your life easier and takes care of the basics,” said Stiles. “After 6 long years of Doug Ford’s Conservatives, life is more expensive than ever. Ontarians are paying more and getting less. We need things to change right now.”

“We will build strong and caring communities by reversing decades of cuts and downloads that have driven up costs for everyone,” said Stiles. Continue reading →

 Meeting Scheduled for  Wednesday, November 20th at 7:00p.m. with speakers to start at 7:30 p.m.

This Invite from the Niagara District Council of Women Council of Women

Posted November 18^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

SPEAKERS

Thalia Semplonius :Research&Program director <https://workforcecollective.ca/>     

Workforce Collective is a non-profit organization that serves our community’s efforts to address workforce challenges and opportunities. As hosts of Niagara Workforce Planning Board for more than 25 years, we’re building on decades of learning about labour market issues and taking action to develop workforce-related solutions. Continue reading →

“I want to extend my thanks to all the students who participated in this year’s contest. It was incredible to see such talent from the next generation, and I encourage everyone to keep sharing their creativity with our community.”                                                                    – St. Cathrainrs Mayor Mat Siscoe

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

Posted November 18th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – This may be far from the usual more heavy issues you find posted on this site. But I am posting it because it is a good example of one of the ways to engage young people in our local governments. Hopefully are schools will see moments like this as an opportunity to teach young people about the workings of government and the responsibility they  have and all of their fellow citizens have to engage with them  on other matters that impact our communities.)

Sofia, Grade 3 -–-Holidays-at-the-Carousel

St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 Mayor’s Holiday Card Contest, a competition that invited local elementary school students to submit their holiday-themed artwork to be featured on the Mayor’s official holiday card.

After receiving a variety of creative submissions, Mayor Siscoe has selected four young artists whose work will grace the Mayor’s 2024 Holiday Card, which will be shared with community leaders from Niagara and beyond.

The winners are:

• Sofia, Grade 3 – Holidays at the Carousel
• Jimena, Grade 3 – A Visit From Santa in St. Catharines
• Yami, Grade 3 – Christmas With Family
• Maylynn, Grade 6 – Holiday Shopping on St. Paul Street

Continue reading →

The Charles Dickens classic kicks off the Festival’s holiday season now through December 22nd

News from the Shaw Festival in Niagara-0n-the-Lake, Ontario

Posted November 18^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON— A timeless tale – certain to bring comfort and joy to all – begins previews tomorrow. Christmas spirits of the Dickensian kind will once again inhabit the Shaw Festival’s Royal George Theatre when holiday favourite A Christmas Carol takes the stage until December 22. This year, Ryan G. Hinds directs the annual festive production.

On Christmas Eve, wealthy miser Ebenezer Scrooge (Sanjay Talwar) is visited by the tormented ghost of his late business partner with a warning to change his selfish ways or suffer a similar fate. Continue reading →

With All Of The Madness Unfolding in Trumpland, U.S.A., Don’t We All?!!

Posted by Doug Draper on November 14^th, 2024

We will be back early  this coming week after I get a chance to recover, if even just a little bit, from all the horrific news that is coming in from south of the border since last week’s U.S. presidential election.

I am going to do what our cat Luna does regularly and ignore the news for a couple of days. She never seem to have any problem keeping her cool.

Meanwhile, thanks for your continued visits to the NAL site and please continue sharing information and your views on any issue posted here or that you would like posted here while I take this little rest.

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

New Study – Rise of SUVs, Trucks has Cancelled Out 80 Per Cent of Fuel Economy Improvements in Canada

Many Canadians want their vehicles big – never mind the impact those vehicles have on the environment

“This study proves that US-Canada vehicle emissions standards have loopholes so big you can drive a gigantic truck through it. When automakers can get out of emissions standards by gaming the system with bigger and heavier vehicles, families end up paying the price by filling the gas tank more often, breathing more air pollution, and living with more dangerous streets for pedestrians, cyclists and young children.” – Nate Wallace, Clean Transportation Program Manager at Environmental Defence

News from Environmental Defence and the David Suzuki Foundation

Posted November 14^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Doug Draper – In all due respect to the time-honoured environmental groups that produced this study, you can’t always place all the blame in the laps of governments and private corporations. Continue reading →

Joint Venture with Honda Will Strengthen Ontario’s End-To-End Electric Vehicle and Battery Supply Chain

“Niagara Region warmly welcomes Asahi Kasei and is proud to support Ontario’s momentum as a leader in the electric vehicle supply chain. – Jim Bradley, Regional Chair, Niagara Region

“I am truly delighted to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Asahi Kasei Battery Separator Canada facility. This project marks an historic investment in our community and is a shining example of the fantastic outcomes that can be achieved when we collaborate and pursue common goals.” – Bill Steele, Mayor, City of Port Colborne

News from Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade

Posted November 14th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

PORT COLBORNE/Niagara — The Ontario government is welcoming the start of construction on Asahi Kasei’s $1.7 billion manufacturing facility in Port Colborne to produce lithium-ion battery separators, a key component of electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

What the new plant will look like

The new plant, the first of its kind in Canada, is a significant part of Ontario’s growing end-to-end EV and battery supply chain, accelerating the production of Ontario-made EVs and creating better jobs with bigger paycheques in the Niagara Region. Continue reading →

New Electric Vehicle Chargers Will Make Life Easier and More Convenient for Drivers

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

Posted November 13^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West, at the site of a future electrical charging station at 4725 Ontario Street in Beamsville.

BEAMVILLE – Ontario is building 139 new Electric Vehicle charging stations in Niagara.

This marks a major milestone in the province’s plan to increase access to Electric Vehicle chargers outside of large urban centres and support the electrification of transportation across the province.

As the province continues to see substantial job creation and investment in the growing Electric Vehicle and Electric Vehicle battery manufacturing sector, these new charging stations will provide critical supporting infrastructure in communities across the province, including for Electric Vehicles made right here in Ontario. Continue reading →

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

Posted November 13th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

The City of St. Catharines invites the community to join a cherished holiday tradition as the 27th Annual Tree of Giving campaign kicks off on Nov. 12.

This season, residents can help brighten lives across St. Catharines and Thorold by donating new, unwrapped gifts, gift cards, or monetary contributions to support Community Care St. Catharines and Thorold.

“The generosity shown over the years through the Tree of Giving campaign truly captures the spirit of St. Catharines,” said Andrea Connelly-Miele, Community and Events Coordinator for the City of St. Catharines. “Every donation helps create brighter moments and meaningful support for local families who need it most.” Continue reading →

Fans of Monty Python, Mr. Bean, and Dr. Seuss… Grab your teacups! The beloved theatrical holiday tradition makes its highly anticipated return to St Catharines

A BRITISH COMEDY by Comedy Legends James & Jamesy

Posted November 14^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Reminiscent of classic British pantos, and blending physical comedy,quick-witted wordplay, and cleverly crafted interactive elements, O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy will take the stage at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre on December 1st at 3pm and 7:30pm.

For over a decade British Comedy legends James & Jamesy (aka Aaron Malkin and Alastair Knowles) have been flooding auditoriums with joy and laughter in their multi-award winning tea-themed comedies. Continue reading →

Remembrance Day Ceremonies Have A Way Of Bringing People Together In A Warm, Positive Sort of Way

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

Posted November 12^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Like the ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes who carried around a lamp in broad daylight, claiming he was “looking for an honest man,” I often think of myself doing the same as I am looking for a sense of community.

In a gathering of people around a cenotaph on Remembrance Day, you can feel a sense of community with others, at least for a little while. photo by Doug Draper

And in this day and age of so many people looking down at smart phones and wearing ear plugs as they walk past each other without even trading a friendly smile, a sense of community – of experiencing genuine organic encounters with others – is getting harder and harder to find. Continue reading →

Protecting Ontario’s wetlands is critical to building a climate resilient future for communities and biodiversity across Ontario.

A Call-Out To All of Us from Ontario Nature, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving our natural heritage

Posted November 12^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario’s wetlands are incredibly valuable for many reasons. Wetlands mitigate flooding, store carbon and provide habitat for a diverse range of species, making them significant nature-based climate solution powerhouses. However, these powerhouses need our help now more than ever.

Wetland loss has already exceeded 72 percent in southern Ontario, and losses are ongoing. To make matters worse, changes to Ontario’s planning policy and legislation over the past several years have undermined wetland protection across the province, accelerating wetland loss. Continue reading →

“Teachers expressed there was a general lack of respect, with students also not following instructions or caring about the consequences of their behaviour in the classroom.”                          – Brock Researcher Natalie Spadafora

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted November 11^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Incivility comes in many forms: texting instead of listening to a teacher, interrupting classmates who are speaking, showing up late to class.

Brock University researcher Natalie Spadafora. photo courtesy of Brock University

Following an unprecedented period of at-home learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, similar types of disruptive behaviour spiked in Ontario classrooms, says Natalie Spadafora.

The Brock University Postdoctoral Fellow and her team examined the rate of classroom incivility in elementary and high schools both before and after pandemic-related school shutdowns, and saw a significant increase.

Their findings are detailed in the recently published paper “Are child and adolescent students more uncivil after COVID-19?<https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2025-40514-001.html>” Continue reading →

Regional Chair Jim Bradley offers a Statement of condolence on the passing of the Honourable Murray Sinclair

Posted November 11^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from NAL – Although Murray  Sinclair passed away eight days ago, this statement from Niagara Region was just issued this November 11th)

The late, great Murray Sinclair honoured by Niagara Region

Niagara, Ontario – “On behalf of Regional Council, we join with residents across the Country in mourning the recent passing of the Honourable Murray Sinclair.

Senator Sinclair passed away Nov. 4, 2024, at the age of 73.   Known within the Indigenous community as Mazina Giizhik (the One Who Speaks of Pictures in the Sky), he was a respected Anishinaabe leader, beloved husband and father.

Senator Sinclair was Manitoba’s first Indigenous judge, Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and served as a Manitoba Senator. Continue reading →

Let’s Stand Together  Against All Threats To  Democracy, Foreign Or Domestic

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

Posted November 11^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Canadian troops landing in Normandy, France in June of 1944 in the war against Hitler’s Nazis

Almost every Second World War veteran I knew as a fellow worker, as a friend or interviewed for Remembrance Day stories for newspapers I worked for are gone now.

For years now, I haven’t met a single one from that war selling poppies and pinning them ever so carefully and with so much pride on peoples’ lapels as they once did outside of stores in our communities.

All I have left are memories of the horrific stories they told about comrades being blown to pieces during what was a do-or-die war for freedom over fascism.

The iconic soldiers’ memorial near in my childhood home, in Chippawa, Park in Welland, Ontario, bearing the names of young people from the community who fought and died in World Wars One and Two. file photo by Doug Draper

Today, we find ourselves fighting for those democratic rights and freedoms again and we all need to summon the courage to make sure that no one, foreign or domestic, uses whatever stealth means to take those freedoms away.

We need to stand together and remain vigilant  in that fight. Wearing a poppy for a few weeks each year is not enough and may even serve as a shield for some who are working against our democratic values.

• 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 Doug Draper

Posted October 10^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

A young woman who simply identified herself as ‘Lady Liberty in Mourning’, holds a vigil at the Elmwood Village Farmers Market in Buffalo, New York a few days after a U.S presidential election that saw Trump returned to power. Photo by Doug Draper

What a difference an election can make.

It was just a few weekends ago, when my wife and I crossed the border for a short trip to Buffalo, that people we talked to  in the Elmwood Village area of that city were still feeling hopeful that Kamala Harris would win the presidency in their country and that they would see the back of Trump, once and for all.

In that area of the city, which has had a long history of voting for Democrats, Harris campaign signs were visibly present on front lawns and a local book store continued to sell out of ‘Kamala For President’ buttons and bumper stickers as quickly as they could get them.

This weekend of November 9^th however, on another trip to the same area of Buffalo, just days after U.S elections that saw Trump win a second term as president, people we met at the coffee shops, at the farmers market and some estate sales we attended sounded  pretty down when the top of the election came up. Continue reading →

An Invite from Niagara, Ontario’s Regional Government

Posted November 10th^h, 2024 on Niagara At Large

In a bid to break taboos around toilets and make access to sanitation a global priority, the United Nations recognizes World Toilet Day on Nov. 19 each year. \

To celebrate World Toilet Day, Niagara Region will be offering two free guided tours of a Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Niagara Region has 11 wastewater treatment facilities that process 187.5 million litres of sewage per day to protect the Great Lakes from pollution and practice responsible environmental stewardship. Continue reading →

All-new light rail line will deliver better, faster and more reliable transit

“I want to thank Premier Ford and the Ontario government for their continued support of this project, which will bring significant benefits to the residents and businesses of the City of Hamilton for many years to come.”                                                       – Hamilton Mayor and former Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted November 10^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

HAMILTON, Ontario – The Ontario government is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT), bringing the province one step closer to getting shovels in the ground on major construction for a key transit project that will carry 50,000 daily riders across one of Ontario’s fastest-growing cities.

“Our government is making real progress on our historic plan to build and expand transit across the Greater Golden Horseshoe,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. Continue reading →

Abandoning Working Class People Could Be The Kiss of Death For Them

Some words worth reflecting on on both sides of the Canada/U.S border from U.S. Senator and former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders

Posted November 8^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Region’s council chambers, as empty as I often imagine it these days, even during meetings

(A Brief Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug draper – This past November 7^th, I sat down in front of my laptop at home and tuned into the budget meeting underway at Niagara Regional Headquarters where  once again, and for the third year in a row, it is looking like people across the region could be slapped with a hike  on the regional government side of their property tax bill that is well above the rate of inflation.

And once again, as I forced myself to watch another one of these meetings, the Regional Council left me, as I know it leaves others I’ve talked to in the community, with a feeling n that this is a club, and we, the people,  are not any part of it.

Little wonder why, in recent years and unless there is a red hot issue on the agenda, the public gallery in the council chambers is so often virtually empty. Continue reading →

“Don’t ever give up. … Don’t ever stop trying to make this world a better place. You have the power and don’t ever listen when someone tries to to tell you that something is impossible because it has never been done before. You have the capacity to do extraordinary things in the world.”                                                       – Kamala Harris, U.S. Vice President and outgoing Democratic presidential candidate

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

Posted November 7^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

I promise you that I will move on from this and get back to other issues of interest and concern to our lives and our communities.

But like millions of people on both sides of the Canada/U.S. border, I am still trying to come to terms with the fact that a majority of American voters chose to put Donald Trump back in the White House rather than elect Kamala Harris as their next president.

This past November 6^th, 2024 and barely more than 12 hours after Trump was declared the projected winner of the 2024 presidential race, Kamala Harris went out on a stage at Howard University where she graduated in political science and economics before going on to earn a law degree at the University of California, she stood before  thousands of mostly young people and delivered a concession speech with a dignity and grace that Trump has proven, time and time again,  to be totally void of. Continue reading →

Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives Slam Plan To Cap Climate Ravaging Carbon Emissions As ‘Job Killer’

News from the Office of Canada’s Federal Conservative Party Leader, Pierre Poilievre

Posted November 8^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Do we want on governments to weaken and eliminate measures to reduce harmful emissions to our environment?

(A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – In my decades-long experience covering environmental issues for news media outlets, it has almost always been the case that politicians on the right-wing or conservative side of the equation are in favour of weakening or eliminating measures aimed at protecting the environment.

It has also almost always been the case that they view any strengthening of environmental protection measures as being to costly while, at the same time, paying little or no attention to how costly taking little or no action to protect the environment can be – even at this time of climate emergencies when experts in insurance and other industries and agencies calculate that the cost of damage and destruction from floods, wildfires and other severe weather-related events is now adding up to countless tens-of-billions of dollars a year on this continent alone. Continue reading →

A Statement From Environmental Defence Canada, a nation-wide citizens group advocating for a healthier planet

Posted November 7^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa  – We welcome the Government of Canada’s Oil and Gas Greenhouse Gas Pollution Cap draft regulation, which aims to curb pollution from the oil and gas industry. This is a historic step towards holding this industry accountable for its outsized role in driving climate change.

The release of the draft pollution cap rules brings Canada one step closer to being the first nation in the world to put binding limits on oil and gas pollution.

The oil and gas industry is the largest source of emissions in the country, accounting for over 30 per cent of Canada’s emissions. The industry has continued to produce more pollution each year, canceling out efforts made by other parts of the economy. This underscores the need for government intervention. Continue reading →

“While climate change continues to devastate homes and communities, putting Ontarians’ health at risk and flooding people’s homes, fossil fuel giants are making record profits.”

News from Ontario’s Green Party

Posted November 7^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

While most provinces in Canada allow municipalities to charge fossil fuel companies to run fossil gas pipes under public land, in Ontario, fossil giants like Enbridge are getting a free ride on the back of taxpayers.

Enbridge is getting a free ride on the back of taxpayers. You heard that right: at a time when the climate emergency is worsening and people are struggling to make ends meet, Doug Ford is subsidizing fossil fuel giants. Continue reading →

“I believe that we shouldn’t be charging nurses, doctors, patients, and families fees to park at a hospital.”                                                          – Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates whose riding includes Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake

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

Posted November 8th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

The parking lot at Niagara Health’s Welland hospital site. Why should people who need one of our public hospitals or are visiting a loved one in them have to pay for parking? file photo by Doug Draper

QUEENS PARK – NDP MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) called for an end to parking fees at public hospitals across the province of Ontario.

“In Niagara, residents are paying out-of-control rates for parking at our local hospitals,” said Gates.

“Meanwhile, it’s no secret we have an affordability crisis in the province of Ontario. Costs for rents, groceries, gas, and much more have skyrocketed over the last few years. We shouldn’t be adding an extra cost to people’s daily lives and forcing families to choose between visiting a loved one at a hospital or making ends meet.” Continue reading →

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted November 6^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Is this a nightmare I can’t shake off or did this really happen?

Forgive me if I am still trying to process all of this because it seemed to me, as I imagined it seemed to so many others, that the choice in this race for the U.S. presidency could not have been starker.

It was like a choice between wading into a pool of nice warm, refreshing  water versus jumping into a cauldron of boiling oil.

Obviously, the tens-of- millions of Americans who voted for him to take back one of the most powerful offices in the world did not see it that way. Lest we forget, he told them from the start of his campaign that he was going to be their savior and avenger. Whatever hits he was taking and would continue to take along the way, he told them, he was taking for them. Continue reading →

In This U.S. Presidential Election, There Is No Option B For A Good Future

Posted by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large on November 5^th, 2024, Election Day U.S.A.

When U.S. Democratic Presidential candidate Kamal Harris was recently asked in an interview; “What would your late mother be saying to you now,” Harris replied; “She would be saying – ‘You have got to beat him.’’

A file photo of Kamala Harris, right, and her Indian-borne mother, Shyamala Gopalan who passed away in 2009

Listen to your mother Kamala. She is so very right.

And if you are an American reading this, please go out with all of your relatives and friends  before the polls close and vote for what The New York Times’ Editorial Board  recently wrote is “the only patriotic choice for America – Kamala Harris.

Do it for the sake of your country and for all countries, including Canada, that value freedom and democracy around the world.

A Footnote – Unless all hell breaks loose and we can’t ignore it, Niagara At Large will be back on the other side of this election.

If you are one of those who actually needs to be convinced of how much of a nightmare Trump is and would be if he won a second term as president, click on this election-eve monologue by Lake Night Show host Jimmy Kimmel – Trump Ratchets Up Rhetoric, Epstein Bombshells Dropped & Jimmy’s Election Eve Closing Argument

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

Honouring Murray Sinclair

“We have to ensure that Indigenous people are given an opportunity to regain their self-respect …That means that we now have to ensure that we give back to them those things that were taken away: their languages, their cultures, their means of developing their own sense of identity.”      – Indigenous Leader Murray Sinclair, speaking in 2021 as he was retiring from Canada’s Senate on the need for everyone across the country to come to terms with the injustices and systemic racism experienced for so long by his people

A Few Words of Tribute from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper followed by a Statement from Canada’s Prime Minister

Posted November 4th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

From Doug Draper – I am sure that Murray Sinclair, who died this November 4th, 2024 at age 73, will go down in history as one of Canada’s towering figures – as our Nelson Mandela, our Martin Luther King Jr, our Gandhi – if he hasn’t already.

As a First Nations Lawyer and Judge, and as a Canadian Senator and from 2009 to 2015, Chair of the country’s Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission, I am sure I am not alone in my view that I learned more from him about the suffering and about what he called “cultural genocide” committed against Indigenous people by European settlers in Canada than I did from almost anyplace else. Continue reading →

“Regardless of the outcome of this week’s elections, we stand ready to work with our partners south of the border. Above all, we must avoid falling into a “Buy Canada” or “Buy America” mindset that would jeopardize our existing trading relationship.” – Ontario Premier Doug Ford

News from the Office of Ontario’s Premier

Posted November 4^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford

TORONTO — Today (this November 4th, 2024), Premier Doug Ford issued the following statement ahead of the United States elections on Tuesday, November 5th –

“As Americans prepare to vote in this week’s elections, it’s more important than ever to preserve and build on our longstanding ties of friendship, trade and co-operation that unite Canada and the United States.

Together, we can support the millions of workers on both sides of the border whose paycheques and livelihoods rely on this critical relationship. Continue reading →

The Legendary Quincy Jones Dies at Age 91

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted November 4^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Michael Jackson (left) and Quincy Jones during their glory days

In the view of this wannabe musicologist, few individuals in the past 60 or more years has put a greater stamp on popular music than Quincy Jones, who died this November 3^rd, 2024 at age 91.

From music giants like Frank Sinatra, Count Basie and Ella Fitzgerald to Leslie Gore (of ‘It’s My Party’ fame) Diana Ross, Michael Jackson and on and on and on, he arranged and produced some of the best recordings in music history.

Among his crowning achievements as an arranger/producer was Michael Jackson’s blockbuster album ‘Thriller’ and its top-charting single ‘Billie Jean’. Continue reading →

Few Stand-Up Comedians In The World Have Made The Case Against Trump Better Than Jimmy Kimmel

Posted with a Brief Comment by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large

November 3rd, 2024, just two days away the most consequential U.S. Election in our lifetime

You can’t make this up. Here is Trump calling Kamala Harris supporters “scum” from a passenger seat in a garbage truck. Hey, Donald. How about swinging by my house and picking up one of those super gaudy pair of Trump sneakers I am dying to get rid of – Doug Draper, NAL

I don’t know if anyone, including Moses coming down from the Mount with a tablet that reads; “Thou Shalt Not Vote For Trump,” can convince members of the MAGA cult or anyone still undecided not to vote for the orange-face monster this late in the game.

But if anyone outside of Kamala Harris herself and some of her strongest supporters, including Liz Cheney and Barrack and Michelle Obama, can get them to at least give deserting  Trump a second thought, I think it might be late night talk show host and comedian Jimmy Kimmel with a special monologue he delivered just days ago.

Please take the time to watch it by clicking on the screen below. 

And to all of my fellow Canadians out there, please consider forwarding this appeal from Kimmel  to any friends and relatives you have in the United States before the November 5^th presidential vote –

• Doug Draper, reporter/publisher for Niagara At Large and an apologetic ‘Canadian For Kamala’ 

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 November 3^rd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

“I’m the last leaf on the tree
The autumn took the rest
But it won’t take me
I’m the last leaf on the tree

“When the autumn wind blows
They’re already gone
They flutter to the ground
They just can’t hang on”
– lyrics from a new song called ‘The Leaf’ by Willie Nelson

I have always been a spring and summer person.

The last leaf on the silver maple tree in my front yard that has a habit of being one on the first trees to sprout its buds in the spring and one of the first to drop its leaves in the fall.

Having said that, I admit that fall or autumn, as many prefer to call it, is a beautiful time of the year when leaves start turning various shades of red and yellow. But that only lasts a few short weeks before the leaves wither and die, then fall from the trees when the first chilly winds before winter blow.

Then, as morbid as it may sound, I can’t get the idea of dying out of my mind as my thoughts turn to so many friends and relatives others I came to know in my life who have passed on.

In that spirit, just this past week I discovered what for me is a perfect song for this time of year, written and performed by legendary singer/songwriter Willie Nelson. Continue reading →

“We must make our voices heard about the urgent need to address the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.”

A Call-Out from Ontario Nature To Fill Out A Pre-Election Survey

(Find Details And Link For Filling Out Survey Below. )

Posted November 4^th, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Nature would like your input as we set our priorities for the upcoming provincial election.

We do not know exactly when the election will be called, but we believe that it could be as early as spring 2025. We want to be prepared by understanding your priorities. If you have any questions about the survey, please reply to this email or call 1-800-440-2366. Continue reading →

Make A Donation To Support Mental Health Services For Children Across Niagara

#ProjectPlaid campaign encourages open talk around Mental Health

A Call-Out for Support from Pathstone Mental Health

Posted November 3rd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Region – Now into it’s 4th year at Pathstone, ProjectPlaid (#PP), was created to honour the life of Amelia Durocher after we lost her to suicide in 2019. But it wasn’t just about Amelia, says her mother Shanta Rangaratnam, the founder of this campaign.

“It was also about encouraging us all to talk openly about mental health, with the hope that something like this never happens to another family.”

Since 2019, PP has been marked every November across Niagara and culminates on the final Friday of that month, known now as Plaid Friday. On that day the campaign is amplified as the community wears plaid, which was Amelia’s signature style, talks about their mental health, and donates to Pathstone. Continue reading →