“With the greatest single investment ever made to protect Canada’s land, freshwater and oceans, the federal government is walking the talk.”

Now, the Government Of Ontario Needs To Step Up To The Plate

A News Release from the Toronto-based citizens group Ontario Nature

Posted March 9th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ontario – A partnership of Indigenous and environmental groups commended the Canadian government for tabling (this past 27th) the best federal budget for biodiversity conservation in decades.

The budget creates hope that Canada will meet its commitment to protect at least 17 percent of lands and inland waters by 2020. Continue reading →

Who Was Ultimately Responsible for Cutting this Guy the Cheques?

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

Posted March 8th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Like all of his fellow members of Niagara regional council – save for the chair who serves full-time – Andy Petrowski receives an annual base income for the part-time position of between $32,000 and $33,000.

A campaign billboard sign in 2014 for St. Catharines regional councilor Andy Petrowski plays the incumbent candidate up as Niagara Region’s “one watchdog … working for you.” File photo by Doug Draper

But somehow the St. Catharines regional councillor – who has openly identified himself as a “watchdog” for Niagara’s taxpayers during his almost two terms on the council – managed to rack up a total of $112,866 in 2017 when all of the mileage, conference fees and other expenses were included with his remuneration.

The additional $72,000 and change, on top of his remuneration puts Petrowski at the top of the list for total expenses of all 31 members of council, including the regional chair, Al Caslin. It is quite a feat considering that he was off on leaves of absence from the council for almost three months last year – following controversies over his conduct as a councillor – and remains off now, until at least this May. Continue reading →

“With the tide of protectionism rising across the U.S., we have more work to do and will remain vigilant.” – Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne

A Statement from Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne

Posted March 8th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Premier Kathleen Wynne released the following statement today on Canada’s exemption from the U.S.’s new tariffs on steel and aluminum imports:

“We learned today that Canada has been exempted from the U.S. government’s new steel and aluminum import tariffs — for now. While it is important to recognize that we are still facing challenges, I am pleased that we got the decision we fought for — the one that protects workers and businesses in Ontario’s steel and aluminum industry.”

Steel mills in nearby Hamilton, Ontario. Trump’s threat of a 25 per cent tariff on steel and a 10 per cent tariff on aluminum – including steel and aluminum from Canada – could deal a big blow to what’s left of those industries and the jobs they support in Canada. Trump has left the threats on the table, depending on how negotiations go on a hammering out a revised North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

“It speaks to the success of Ontario’s strategy of extensive outreach to U.S. leaders during this period of uncertainty. But it also underlines the threats we still face during this uncertain time and the need for my outreach and advocacy to continue.” Continue reading →

With FAA Authorization Set to Expire on March 31st, U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins Rejects Attempts to Change Improvements Made Following the Crash of Flight 3407

“There is no give-and-take on flight safety.  Any effort to give up the flight safety improvements … threatens the lives of passengers.”  – Buffalo, New York  Area Congressman Brian Higgins

News from the Office of Buffalo, New York area Congressman Brian Higgins

Posted March 8th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Buffalo, New York area Democratic Congressman Brian Higgins

(A Brief Foreword Note from Niagara At Large – To the extent people on the Canadian side of the border, fly commercial jets in and out of the airport in Buffalo – and many Canadians do – any weaking of rules for pilot flight training in the United States, is very much a concern to Canadians too. So people in both countries have a stake in Congressman Higgins’ efforts to keep training requirements for commercial airline pilots strong!)

Buffalo, New York area Congressman Brian Higgins (a Democrat) is pushing back on a position paper recently released by the Flight Safety Foundation which suggests reducing the flight time requirements for new airline pilots.  Continue reading →

Image of Heroic Icon for Human Rights Unveiled this March 8th on Ten Dollar Bill

News from the Bank of Canada

Posted March 8th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Viola Desmond was selected by the Minister of Finance to be featured on Canada’s next regularly circulating $10 bank note.

The selection was drawn from a short list of five iconic Canadians who, together, illustrate the diverse and important contributions women have made in shaping Canada’s history. Watch Viola’s Heritage Minute video, find out more about the selection process, and learn about other changes coming to your bank notes.

Viola Desmond remains an icon of the human rights and freedoms movement in Canada. A successful Nova Scotia businesswoman, she defiantly refused to leave a whites-only area of a movie theatre in 1946 and was subsequently jailed, convicted and fined. Her court case was one of the first known legal challenges against racial segregation brought forth by a Black woman in Canada. Continue reading →

‘Students will be set up outside Mackenzie Chown Complex A Block and will be accepting non-perishable food and cash donations from March 12 to 16. Online donations are also being accepted at 5days.ca/brock throughout March.’

News from Brock University in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 8^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Breanne Van Den Breemen has felt the impact of homelessness.

While she’s never been without a place to lay her head, the 19-year-old Hamilton native has a close relative who, despite the best efforts of family and local shelters, has experienced homelessness for many years.

“It’s difficult when we’re always wondering where he is and if he’s safe,” said the second-year Brock Bachelor of Arts student. “I wish I could have a greater understanding of who he is and what his life could be like if he had the proper support to have a home.”

The circumstances have had a profound impact on Van Den Breemen’s family and, as a result, she hopes to help raise awareness and support for local services that aid with homelessness in Niagara. Continue reading →

“We can take real action on pay equity, affordable not-for-profit child care, affordable housing, shelters, transitional housing and supports for women fleeing violence, and making work more stable and less precarious.”                                                                       – Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Statement from NDP Leader Andrea Horwath on International Women’s Day 2018

Posted March 8th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

“On International Women’s Day, New Democrats join Ontarians to recognize the hurdles women have overcome, celebrate the women who have championed change, and renew our commitment to tearing down the barriers women and girls still face.

Over the last year, the #metoo and #timesup movements have shown that when women and allies stand together and confront entrenched systems of power and abuse, we can change things. Continue reading →

Province Funding New Program to Help Reduce Greenhouse Gas Pollution

Harnessing the creativity, dedication and experience of local innovators and climate leaders … will help us move towards a strong, more prosperous low-carbon economy. “
— Chris Ballard, Minister of the Environment and Climate Change

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted March 8th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

To help fight climate change, Ontario is encouraging businesses, utilities, non-profit organizations, registered charities, conservation authorities and Indigenous organizations to develop new and innovative solutions for reducing greenhouse gas pollution.

Chris Ballard, Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, was joined today by Parminder Sandhu, Green Ontario Fund board chair and Interim CEO, to announce the launch of the GreenON Challenge.

This program will support the exploration and development of new projects to reduce pollution, advance the province’s low-carbon economy and meet Ontario’s greenhouse gas reduction targets. Continue reading →

Sponsored  by Niagara’s Preservation  of Agricultural Lands Society – Thursday, March 22nd at 7 P.M. in St. Catharines/Niagara – Mark It Down On Your Calendar!

An Invite to All from the Preservation of Agricultural Lands Society in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 8th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

The Preservation of Agricultural Lands Society  (PALS) invites the public to hear an epic story of  farmland preservation in Pickering, from  Mary Delaney, Chair of the Land Over Landings Group in Pickering , at its 42nd Annual General Meeting on Thursday March 22nd ,7 p.m. Unitarian Congregation Hall 223 Church Street St. Catharines .

As Mary  notes , “Almost half a century ago the Federal Government expropriated 18,600 acres of prime farmland next to Toronto for an airport — an airport that was never built.” Continue reading →

“Trade wars do not have winners. The Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce  strongly opposes these tariffs and hopes that U.S. legislators will act in the best interests of their economy and preserve jobs by abandoning this destructive course.”

A Statement from  the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, representing members of  the business community in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 7th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Trump brandishes threat of trade war with Canada and other nations

Niagara, Ontario  – U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a 10 percent import tariff on aluminum and a 25 percent tariff on steel was greeted with alarm on both sides of the border, including within his own party.

The President has vowed that no exceptions will be made for any country. Although he has often targeted China, even going to far as to label that country an “enemy” of the United States, Canada would be the most-affected. Canada is the largest source of imported steel for the United States, with almost 17 per cent of all U.S. steel originating here – 88 percent of Canada’s total steel exports, worth $5.53-billion.   Continue reading →

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

Posted March 7th, 2018 on Niagara At Large  

Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Queen’s Park, Toronto  – This March 6^th, Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara-West Glanbrook called on the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care to assume responsibility for yet another crisis situation in his riding. 

Oosterhoff explained how he recently went on a ride-along with members of the Niagara Regional Police Service. After having received a Mental Health Apprehension call, the officers shared stories of the harm caused by the government’s failure to invest in preventative mental health issues. 

“Most calls these officers receive are to deal with people who are having a mental health crisis, people who could have been helped by earlier intervention,” declared Oosterhoff in the Legislature. Continue reading →

A News Release from the Town of Pelham in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 7th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Pelham, Ontario – For the fourth consecutive year, the Town of Pelham’s signature event, Summerfest, is one of FEO’s top-100 festivals and events.

Pelham’s Summerfest wins Ontario Award for one of province’s best annual festivals

At their gala on March 2, 2018, Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) awarded Pelham with another significant honour, recognizing the investment to go green at the Thursday Night Supper Market with the Best Greening Festival/Event. Continue reading →

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

Posted March 7th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Starting this past March 1st, (2018) the Province of Ontario is banning unsolicited, door-to-door sales of certain household appliances, including water filters, water heaters and other types of water treatment devices.

The new law states businesses are only able to sell certain household appliances and services in a resident’s home if the resident has contacted the business ahead of time and invited them for the purpose of entering into a contract. Continue reading →

“It’s time for women to earn the same as male counterparts, dollar-for-dollar, and take their rightful place in Ontario’s workplaces.”  – Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

A Statement from Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted  March 7th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

– Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath released the following statement  this pas Tuesday, March 6th  

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

“This Liberal government has had 15 years to tackle the gender pay gap in Ontario. If it were a priority for Kathleen Wynne and the Liberals, they would have already done it.

Sadly, they have not, and today’s (March 6th) announcement (of the Ontario Liberal government’s “Strategy for Women’s Economic Empowerment” legislation) does not improve the pay equity outlook for Ontario’s women. In fact, experts are saying Kathleen Wynne’s desperate attempt to win votes before the June provincial election is actually a step back for women in Ontario. Continue reading →

“Thanks to this first-of-its-kind strategy, we’re building a fairer, more dynamic, forward-thinking and prosperous Ontario — for everyone.” – Premier Kathleen Wynne

News from the Office of Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne

Posted March 7th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ontario First Province in Canada to Introduce Pay Transparency Legislation

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne

Ontario today (this past March 6th) becomes the first province to tackle pay transparency as part of a broad new strategy to advance women’s economic empowerment and build fairer, better workplaces.

Premier Kathleen Wynne unveiled Then Now Next: Ontario’s Strategy for Women’s Economic Empowerment, which includes the introduction of legislation to increase pay transparency by requiring certain employers to track and publish information about compensation in their organizations.

The multifaceted strategy will help remove long-standing barriers that have kept women from benefiting equally in Ontario’s rapidly changing economy. Continue reading →

 A Grassroots Citizens’ Coalition – ‘A Better Niagara’ – Is Hosting Three More Candidate Training Sessions in the Region for this October’s Municipal Elections

Attend These Free Sessions In Grimsby/Lincoln area, Fort Erie & Port Colborne Later This March

A Call-Out to All Concerned Citizens from the non-partisan citizens’ coalition, A Better Niagara, Grimsby 40 and Community Voices of Fort Erie

Posted March 6th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Candidate training sessions planned in three more communities

Niagara, Ontario – Across Niagara it’s clear — people want to see some new faces around the regional and local council tables following the upcoming October 22nd municipal elections.

Debbie Zimmerman, a former Niagara regional chair and municipal councilor, speaking to area citizens in St. Catharines this past January at a Better Niagara session on getting engaged in the coming October 2018 municipal elections. Photo courtesy of Emily Beth.

“While each Niagara community has had its own unique, concerning issues over the past term, the commonality is a demand for better governance,” said Sean Polden, executive director, A Better Niagara, a grassroots-citizens’ coalition formed to increase civic engagement. “People have had enough of controversies and infighting. They want to see regional and local governments listening to, and working for, the people.” Continue reading →

‘Drawing attention to missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, along with highlighting the culture-shifting #MeToo movement, will be the focus of this year’s                      International Women’s Day events at Brock University.’

–         On Thursday, March 8th starting at 1 P.M.

An Invite To All from the Centre for Women’s and Gender Studies at Brock University

Posted March 5th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Drawing attention to missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, along with highlighting the culture-shifting #MeToo movement, will be the focus of this year’s International Women’s Day events at Brock University on Thursday, March 8. 

Starting at 1 p.m. in TH 244, a panel of faculty and student experts from the Department of Communication, Popular Culture and Film will present “Pressing for Progress: Women, Hollywood, and #MeToo.”

Faculty members Christie Milliken, Cristina Santos, Liz Clarke and fourth-year student Yasmin Evering-Kerr will touch on the ways #MeToo and #TimesUp have affected both Hollywood and the field of film studies in recent months. A moderated discussion will be followed by a question-and-answer period.  Continue reading →

 “The Alberta and federal governments talk about reducing (greenhouse gas) emissions but somehow believe expanding oilsands production and shipping dirty bitumen around the world to be burned are compatible with their climate plans.”

“Trudeau’s claim that reducing direct oilsands emissions is enough is also disingenuous. Canada isn’t on track to meet its commitments under the Paris Agreement, and he ignores the fact that countries buying our bitumen will burn it, further fuelling global warming.”

By David Suzuki with contributions from Senior Editor Ian Hanington, from the David Suzuki Foundation website

Posted March 5th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Contrary to a common perception, ignoring climate change won’t make it disappear. Global research going back to 1824 in fields ranging through physics, oceanography, biology and geology have confirmed human activity — mainly burning fossil fuels, raising livestock and destroying carbon sinks like forests and wetlands — is increasing greenhouse gas emissions and causing global temperatures to rise rapidly, putting humanity at risk.

A tar sands facility working full tilt near Fort McMurray, Alberta, where those devastating wildfires more than a year ago have already been forgotten by climate change deniers here

Every legitimate scientific academy and institution and every government, except the current U.S. administration, agrees. Continue reading →

 A Comment from Linda McKellar, a Niagara, Ontario resident and retired triage nurse in Niagara

Posted March 4th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

A generic view of a hospital hallway in Ontario overcrowded with patients waiting for a room

(The following is an excerpt from a comment Niagara At Large received from retired triage nurse Linda McKellar in response to a news release NAL posted this March 2nd from the Constituency Office of Welland (Niagara Centre) Riding MPP Cindy Forster about an 87-year-old woman in the region who waited nine hourse in overcrowded conditions at a hospital in Welland, after suffering a heart attack, before there was a stretcher or bed available for her to lay down.)

NINE HOURS!!!! …

Treatment of a coronary at the earliest possible moment is vital….time is muscle, in this case heart muscle. The woman’s age also should not be a factor. A human is a human and deserves treatment and comfort whether 20 or 90. … Continue reading →

A Brief One from Doug Draper

Posted March 2^nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

When you’ve got Russia’s strongman, Vladimir Putin, bragging that he now has a new generation of nuclear missiles that can penetrate all defense systems and turn American cities into craters, and you are once again confronted with  intelligence reports that Russia is hacking American elections, what do you do if you are supposed to be “the leader of the free world.”

Actor/comedian Alec Baldwin shows off the Russian translation of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” hat.

Well, if you are Donald Trump, you get up at six o’clock in the morning and fire off a nasty tweet about actor/comedian Alec Baldwin and the way he portrays you on Saturday Night Live, of course!

No wonder, as Trump put it a few weeks back when he blew aside charges from his own Department of Justice that Russian nationals are interfering in U.S. elections, “they are laughing their asses off in Moscow.” Continue reading →

 International Women’s Day Luncheon will be held on Thursday March 8 at Club Italia in Niagara Falls, Ontario

An Invite from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Posted March 2^nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – On March 8th, the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) and its Women in Niagara Council (WIN) will celebrate International Women’s Day at Club Italia in Niagara Falls.

The Greater Niagara Chamber’s keynote speaker Betsy Meyers with someone who probably recognize

International Women’s Day is the date on which the world not only celebrates the achievements of women, but focuses on breaking down the barriers faced by women in business, in politics, and in leadership.

The GNCC and WIN are proud to welcome keynote speaker Betsy Myers to Niagara for this event. Ms. Myers was the Chief Operating Officer of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign and the founding director of the Center for Women and Business at Bentley University. Continue reading →

Province Boosting Competitiveness of Wine Sector

“Our support for these major local employers will help bring even more highly-skilled jobs to the region and strengthen Ontario’s economy.” — Jim Bradley, MPP for St. Catharines

News from the Constituency Office of  St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

Posted March 2^nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

Ontario is partnering with Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits Limited and Andrew Peller Limited to help the companies create 45 new jobs and retain 133 existing positions in Niagara region.

Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits Inc. is one of the largest wine producers in the province. The brands include top-selling VQA (Vintners Quality Alliance) Ontario wines such as Lakeview Cellars, 20 Bees and Dan Aykroyd Wines.

With support from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, the company is investing in a 43,300 square feet facility expansion.

The expansion will accommodate new fermenters, humidity and temperature-controlled storage and bottling areas, and the company is also investing in state-of-the-art wine canning equipment. Continue reading →

“We know that this legislation is going to be challenging for housing providers. They will have to balance the rights of tenants who use cannabis with the rights of those who don’t – and maintain their responsibilities as landlords.”                                      – Thorold regional councillor and Niagara Regional Housing Board Chair Henry D’Angela

News from Niagara Regional Housing in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 2nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Thorold regional councillor and Niagara Henry D’Angela

Niagara Regional Housing (NRH) helped Niagara’s social housing providers get ahead of federal cannabis legalization at their Housing Provider Forum last week. 

More than 130 people attended to learn what to expect and what is still unknown about the federal Cannabis Act, which was approved last year. 

Guest speaker Kelly Kendrick from Ohsto-Seri and Ganawageh Urban Homes Inc. began the forum with questions about the cannabis legislation that are already confronting housing providers.  Continue reading →

“The last Conservative government fired 6000 nurses and closed 28 hospitals. The Liberals have shortchanged hospitals in every budget for 15 years. … We have to stop choosing between bad and worse when it comes to health care.” – Niagara, Ontario area MPP Cindy Forster

News from the Constituency Office of Welland (Niagara Centre Riding) MPP Cindy Forster

Posted March 2nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

An outrageously long wait for a suffering 87-year old in an overcrowded Welland, Niagara hospital

Niagara, Ontario – Donna Thompson, an 87-year-old Welland woman, suffered a heart attack and was rushed to Welland hospital Tuesday (February 27th), where she waited for nine hours in a wheelchair in a crowded hallway, thanks to hospital overcrowding.

Welland MPP Cindy Forster questioned Kathleen Wynne and the Liberals this March 1st at Queen’s Park about the ongoing crowding crisis and the government’s inaction.

Simmonds’ wait in the emergency department hallway – sitting upright in a wheelchair despite the heart attack and arthritis in her back – was because the hospital was so overcrowded that there were no stretchers available for her to lay down. Continue reading →

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted March 1^st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines regional councillor Brian Heit tabled the NPCA motion.

A motion, tabled by St. Catharines regional councillor Brian Heit and backed by fellow St. Catharines regional councillor Kelly Edgars, to get to the bottom of how much more than two dozen staff buyouts over the past four years at the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority has cost municipal taxpayers passed a the Region’s council this March 1^st.

A few regional councillors, including Grimsby representative Tony Quirk, who also sit on the board of the NPCA, questioned some of the wording in the motion and attempted to pass it off as “a political cheap shot,” aimed at Conservation Authority they claim has become a convenient straw dog for some.

Another St. Catharines regional councillor, Kelly Edgar, seconded the motion and joined Heit in standing up to attacks against it.

In reality, a number of municipal councils, including the council for the City of Hamilton, and several local councils in Niagara have passed motions over the passed year and a half, calling for a full audit of the NPCA’s operations. Among the items of concern members of these councils have raised is what appears to be an extraordinary number of departures of staff for reasons that know the individuals and have respected their work performance.

For your information, the Brian Heit/Edgar Kelly motion that passed this March 1^st reads as follows –

Whereas a significant number of Niagara Residents and Local Area Municipal Councils have come forward and expressed concerns over the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s finances, operations, and business dealings;

Whereas a significant number of Niagara Residents continue to come forward and express concerns over the excessive retirement packages for former employees of the Region and our ABC’s; 

Whereas the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority developed a Strategic Plan in 2014 to guide the organization in the future;

Whereas the 2014-2017 Strategic plan states the importance of Transparent Governance and Enhanced Accountability;

Whereas the Strategic Plan looked at a number of internal processes and staff changes to meet customer needs and deliver regulatory services;

Whereas in the past 4 years the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s restructuring has resulted in dozens of staff being fired, retiring, quitting, contracts not being extended, & or otherwise released;

Whereas a number of these employees have received retirement packages, severance packages, as well as damages at great public expense;

Whereas the Niagara Region contributes over 82% of the Municipal Levy to the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority;

Whereas the majority of the NPCA Board members are also members of Regional Government;

Whereas the NPCA chair has stated his commitment to openness, accountability and transparency.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That Niagara Region REQUEST the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority submit the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 costs associated with severance including but not limited to severances, wages paid, wages paid in lieu of notice, retirement packages, arbitration, personnel court cases, bonuses, and damages to Regional Council by June 6th, 2018.

Stay Tuned to Niagara At Large for more on this and related issues involving the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority later.

NIAGARA AT LARGE encourages you to join the conversation by sharing your views on this post in the space below the Bernie quote.

A reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For more news and commentary from Niagara At Large – an independent, alternative voice for our greater binational Niagara region – become a regular visitor and subscriber to NAL at www.niagaraatlarge.com .

“A politician thinks of the next election. A leader thinks of the next generation.” – Bernie Sanders

How Many Times Do They Have To Tell You That!

A Brief News Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted March 1^st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Fort Erie regional councilor Sandy Annunziata is the current chair of the NPCA’s board of directors

“We’ve made a commitment to being the most transparent Conservation Authority in the province, and it’s something we’re working towards every day.”- from a recently released statement by Sandy Annunziata , a Fort Erie regional councillor and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s board chair,  on behalf of the NPCA’s board of directors.

“The unsigned document in question (meaning a document circulated in 2016 by Niagara citizen Ed Smith, listing several questions and concerns about the way the NPCA carries out business with our tax dollars) calls for accountability and transparency at the NPCA. The NPCA is leading the province in this area. …We have instituted best practices which value a significant amount of public consultation accompanied by pragmatic customer service.” – from a November, 2017 statement by St. Catharines regional councillor Bruce Timms, a member of NPCA’s board of directors and then-chair of the board.

Yah, right.

Citizensfrom across the region drove to Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority board of directors meetings at the Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation a number of times in 2017 to be greeted by signs like this on the doors to the board meetings. Sometimes citizens would have to wait for an hour or two before the meeting was finally open to the public.

I’ve lost track of the number of times I’ve heard Annunziata, Timms and others from the ranks of the NPCA’s board and management  boasting about what a province-wide champion this body is when it comes to being open and accountable to the public. Continue reading →

A News Release from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Posted March 1^st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Lincoln, Ontario – At (this February 28th’s) Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) Full Authority Meeting, the Board of Directors voted to return more than $1.2 million to Niagara taxpayers. The NPCA set aside additional funds over three years while the Mining and Lands Commissioner ruled on an appeal by the City of Hamilton regarding the apportionment of NPCA’s levy.

NPCA board of directors in session. File image

On December 21, 2017, the Mining and Lands Commissioner ruled that the use of the apportionment formula provided to Conservation Authorities by the province is appropriate in the absence of an agreement.  Continue reading →

“You thought it was over but it’s just like before
Will there never be an end to the Indian wars?” –lyrics from Bruce Cockburn’s song, Indian Wars

“She was wrapped in bedding and discarded in a river. We promise to raise the truth of how this world did her wrong.” – one of the recent statements from Tina Fontaine’s grieving friends and family

A Call-Out to All of Us in the Region to Join this Show of Solidary at the Table Rock in Niagara Falls from members of the Indigenous community and Niagara’s Anti-Racism Coalition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Members of the Indigenous community of Niagara invite all residents of region to join  them in remembering Tina Fontaine and her story at noon on March 4, 2018.

Tina left this world in August 2014. She was 15 years of age. She was loved by family and friends. Her Facebook page still shows how much time she spent with beloved cousins, siblings, friends, and how so many in her family cheered her on as she grew. Continue reading →

A New West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Niagara, Ontario is Long Overdue

 News from the Constituency Office of Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff

 Posted February 28th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Queen’s Park – Today Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara-West Glanbrook offered to brief the new Minister of Health and Long-Term Care on the redevelopment of the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Grimsby so that she could take action now.

A rendering for a new West Lincoln Memorial Hospital that many residents in the West Lincoln, Grimsby and Lincoln area have been wanting provincial approval for a long time.

 “My constituents have been fighting for the redevelopment of the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital for far too long, going so far as to raise 14 million dollars towards this redevelopment,” declared Oosterhoff in the Legislature.

“In 2004, this Liberal government called the project ‘a priority’.”  Continue reading →

“Brock is the community’s university. We must make sure our neighbours feel welcome when they come to campus.” – Brock President Gervan Fearon

A News Release from Brock with a few introductory comments from Niagara At Large publisher and reporter Doug Draper

Posted February 28th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

When I was a student at Brock University in the 1970s, you could park your carin the campus lots any day, week or month of the year for free.

That’s right! Parking for all was absolutely free for the first couple of decades after  Brock first opened its doors at the top of the Niagara Escarpment in St. Catharines/Niagara in the mid to late 1960s.

Like other university and college campuses across the province and country for decades now, parking has been a kick in the pocketbook for faculty, students and visitors from the community alike. File photo by Doug Draper

But like many other university and college campuses across the country, that hasn’t been the case for a long, long time as these post-secondary institutions saw reductions in funding from the federal and provincial governments, and felt forced to find other ways of getting money to cover their costs. Continue reading →

A Message from Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey on the new Federal Budget

Posted February 28th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Centre MP and federal Vance Badawey

Ottawa, Ontario – Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre, is proud of Finance Minister Bill Morneau’s Budget 2018, a spending plan that will develop a $150 billion boost to economic productivity by 2026 by bringing more women into the workforce, with money for new parental support, gender equality, and pay equity.

Entitled Equality + Growth, A Strong Middle Class, the third budget of the Justin Trudeau mandate, today’s spending plan is about fairness, a long-term plan to impact our changing demographic, and “the single largest investment into research and development in our history,” Badawey said. Continue reading →

The $870,000 Paid Out To Niagara’s Police Chief Is Just The Tip Of The Iceberg!

How Costly Have The Pay Outs Been At the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority?

A News Commentary by Ed Smith

Posted February 12th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

With Some Introductory Words from NAL publisher Doug Draper –

With a motion going to Niagara regional council this coming Thursday, March 1st – asking the council to support a request to the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority to disclose how much of our tax money it spent firing, retiring or otherwise showing the door to more than two dozen staff members over the past four years – Niagara At Large has decided to repost the following commentary from Niagara area community activist Ed Smith earlier this February.

Ed Smith’s commentary speaks to why the motion being tabled at the March 1^st meeting by St. Catharines regional councillor Brian Heit must be approved by a majority of councillors in the name of openness and accountability when it comes to the use of our municipal tax money.

Please read Ed’s commentary, then make sure you contact your mayor and directly elected regional councillor in Niagara as soon as possible and urge them to vote in favour of Councillor Heit’s motion for public disclosure. – Doug Draper Continue reading →

“The budget (contains) a general lack of new supports or incentives for businesses. With the United States embarking on a large-scale reform of regulations and substantial tax cuts, Canada’s position as a competitive business destination is being eroded.”

“$50-million to support local journalism is welcome. The GNCC understands the role of local journalism not just in supporting businesses, but in supporting democracy through ensuring accountability and informing the electorate.”

An Analysis of the Budget Highlights from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Posted February 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Greater Niagara Chamber CEO Mishka Balsom

Niagara, Ontario  – The 2018 federal budget was one that aimed to grow the economy through strengthening the role of women and promoting science and innovation, with few sweeping changes and a general “steady-as-she-goes” tone. As such, it was also relatively surprise-free, with no current economic crises to address and no impending elections.

However, the GNCC was hoping for a number of other measures which were not seen in this budget. When the economy is growing strongly, and unemployment is low, governments are generally expected to pay down the debt and run a balanced budget, or better yet, a surplus. With this budget, the government is continuing to build up debt and run a deficit during an economic uptick. Canada’s federal public debt is still moderate when compared internationally, however –

The budget also relies on optimistic economic predictions, particularly around unemployment levels remaining at historic lows for an extended period. This leaves the government little room to respond to a potential economic downturn. Continue reading →

Horwath says Ontario will go first with pharmacare plan she revealed last spring

From the Office of Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted February 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Queen’s Park, Toronto – Following the release of the federal budget this Tuesday, February 27th, Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath released the following statement:

“Tuesday’s federal budget showed Ontarians that to have universal pharmacare as soon as possible, we need to launch the Ontario NDP’s plan – not wait for Ottawa.

Tuesday’s budget included not one dollar for the implementation of pharmacare. Yet another study is not the news families wanted to hear. Continue reading →

But Federal Budget 2018 keeps Canadians waiting for the big investments required to build an inclusive economy

A News Release from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives

Posted February 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario —Today’s (February 27^th) federal budget takes positive steps forward on gender equality and science funding, but the bold policy moves that will make a real difference for Canadians—child care, pharmacare, health care or closure of tax loopholes—will have to wait for another day, say experts from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.

“Budget 2018 isn’t constrained by a lack of need or by a weak economy, it is rather constrained by a lack of ambition likely tied to being too far from the next election,” says CCPA Senior Economist David Macdonald. Continue reading →

 A Call-Out to Job Seekers from the Niagara Parks Commission

Posted February 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls, Ontario  – The Niagara Parks Commission, one of the region’s largest employers with over 1,700 full-time and seasonal employees, will host its annual Job Fair on Saturday, March 3, 2018, at Niagara Parks’ Legends on the Niagara Golf Complex.

The Job Fair allows Niagara Parks to showcase the seasonal job opportunities that exist within the Commission each year, while providing individuals with an opportunity to connect directly with various departmental hiring managers. Representatives from Niagara Parks’ Human Resources Department will also be on-hand to help answer any questions. Continue reading →

‘Sio You Don’t Want Nuclear Waste In Your Water?’

Posted February 27th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

The Sierra Club Invites You  to A Public Meeting this Thursday, March 1st at 7 p.m. in Buffalo, New York

This  public meeting is taking place at the Burchfield Penny Art Center on 1300 Elmwood Avenue across the road from the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and near Delaware Park in Buffalo, New York.

NIAGARA AT LARGE encourages you to join the conversation by sharing your views on this

A reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For more news and commentary from Niagara At Large – an independent, alternative voice for our greater bi-national Niagara region – become a regular visitor and subscriber to NAL at www.niagaraatlarge.com .

 “A politician thinks of the next election. A leader thinks of the next generation.” – Bernie Sanders

A News Release from Constituency Office of Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Posted February 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Queen’s Park, Toronto  – As Long-Term Care workers from across the province came to Queen’s Park to voice their frustrations, MPP Sam Oosterhoff welcomed Minister of Health and LongTerm Care Helena Jaczek to her new portfolio with the hard reality of Long-Term Care shortages in Niagara.  

“According to Region of Niagara numbers, from now until 2031, seniors 65 years and older will account for 60 per cent of our population growth” said Oosterhoff. “Right now, the average wait time for a bed in the Niagara Peninsula is close to four years. This is almost twice the provincial wait time of two years.” Continue reading →

Regional Councillor’s Upcoming Motion Calls for Full Disclosure of Costs of Staff Buyouts at Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Call On Your Niagara Region Representatives A.S.A.P. To Support This Motion for Public Disclosure

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

Posted February 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – At least one Niagara regional councillor is determined to get full disclosure on how much of tax money was used by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority to deliver buyouts possibly more than two dozen NPCA employees that have been  retired, fired or otherwise sent packing over the past four or more years.

St. Catharines regional councillor Brian Heit wants answers on how much NPCA staff buyouts have cost Niagara’s taxpayers.

Brian Heit, a regional councillor from St. Catharines, will be tabling a motion at this coming Thursday, March 1st meeting of the council calling for such a disclosure.

The motion, as worded, calls on the Conservation Authority to “submit the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 costs associated with severance including but not limited to severances, wages paid, wages paid in lieu of notice, retirement packages, arbitration, personnel court cases, bonuses, and damages to Regional Council by June 6th, 2018.”

In an interview with Niagara At Large this February 26th, Heit said he feels that his motion makes a perfectly appropriately request of another one of the agencies, boards or commissions Niagara’s regional government is a significant funder of, especially given the recent disclosure of the $870,000 retirement package the Niagara Police Services Board agreed to pay out last year to the Region’s now former police chief Jeff McGuire. Continue reading →

New Technology Allows for Equipment, Not Staff to Shift from Buffalo to Fort Erie

Plan Cuts Wait Times, Enhances Security, Cuts Air Pollution

A News Release from the Buffalo, New York office of U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins

Posted February 26^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority (PBA) are jointly pursuing new technologies, which will allow for the long-stalled redevelopment of the U.S. Peace Bridge plaza to advance.

U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins speaking at Peace Bridge Plaza in Buffalo, New York.

  In light of this, Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) and Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today called on the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) [hyperlink to letter] to put the planning and development of the new U.S. plaza on the “front burner,” with attention from top staff who are empowered to make decisions and resolve issues as the project goes through the legally-required environmental review process and lease negotiations. Continue reading →

Progressive tax code, smart investments will lift close to a million out of poverty and curb inequality: think tank

A News Release from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives

Posted February 25th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario  — The 2018 Alternative Federal Budget (AFB), released today by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA), delivers a roadmap to where the country could be on the eve of the next federal election, if the government moves forward with bold action to deliver a progressive economic plan that leaves no one behind.

Move to close the tax dodge loopholes for those who can and should pay their fair share.

If implemented, the 2018 Alternative Federal Budget will reduce income inequality, lift close to a million people out of poverty, close unfair and expensive tax loopholes, and create 600,000 jobs while locking in the unemployment rate in the five per cent range.

“While the economy enjoyed a surprise jolt in 2017, that strong performance is not expected to last, and poverty and inequality remain at stubborn levels,” says David Macdonald, CCPA Senior Economist. Continue reading →

The Province of Ontario is working to improve access to mental health and addiction services that will help an additional 165 people each year in the Niagara region.

“This additional funding for mental health and addiction services will make an important difference in the lives of many Niagara families, providing the best possible care close to home.”                        — Jim Bradley, MPP for St. Catharines

St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

News from the Constituency Office of St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

Posted  February 26th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Four organizations in the Niagara Region are receiving funding over the next three years to improve access to mental health and addiction services. The organizations are located in St. Catharines, Welland and Grimsby.

• Arid Group Homes provides addictions support for individuals recovering from substance use disorder. Arid Group Homes is receiving funding that will support six new beds at the Women’s Interim Support Home in Welland, which will serve 20 women every year with an average stay of 180 days. The services provided by Arid Group Homes are critical for the continuum of care that is required for recovery from addictions.
• The West Niagara Mental Health (WNMH) program in Grimsby is run by a multi-disciplinary team that provides assessment and treatment for individuals living with mental illness. WNMH is receiving funding that will enable them to connect with patients admitted to the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital’s emergency department and inpatient units in order to bridge the hospital’s mental health treatment with their community program. The additional resources will allow the program to serve at least 75 individuals a year.
• Wayside House of St. Catharines provides residential support for long-term treatment of substance use disorder for men ages 18 and up. Wayside is receiving funding to increase their number of treatment beds from 20 beds to 26 beds, which will enable 50 more people to be served annually by this program. Wayside House is suitable for individuals who don’t require acute treatment, but rather who need a safe and supportive environment to help them recover from their substance use disorder.
• Gateway Residential and Community Support Services in Welland provides supportive housing and case management for people living with mental illness, concurrent disorders and dual diagnoses. They recently received funding to double their supportive housing units from 20 to 40. The new funding will also allow flexibility for Gateway staff to provide evening and weekend coverage across all 40 supportive housing units.

Continue reading →

“The big project for this year will be completing and opening the new Pelham Community Centre. We received a great update from the Oversight Committee on February 5 – that the new Centre is on-time and on-budget.” – Dave Augustyn, Mayor of the Town of Pelham in Niagara, Ontario

A Column from Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn

Posted February 26th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn

Pelham, Niagara – If you pay your property taxes by installments, you will know that your first installment of your 2018 property tax bill comes due on Wednesday. With this deadline, I thought I would provide an update about Council’s recent budget approval.

Council recently approved the Town’s 2018 Capital and Operating Budgets. The new budget translates into an increase of approximately 3.5% (or about $55) on the Pelham portion of your property tax bill for the average residential property (assessed at $328,138).

Since Pelham’s portion of your property taxes represents roughly 38% of your overall residential tax, we approximate that the Town will receive $1,610 of the $4,200 for the average residential property tax bill; the Niagara Region will receive 48% of the total amount (approximately $2,015) and the Province (to fund education) the remaining 14% (approximately $575). Continue reading →

Links  You Can Click On To Review The Mayor’s Expenses Is Included Below

A Media Release from the City of St. Catharines

Posted February 26th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik

The Mayor’s Office has released Mayor Sendzik’s 2017 expenses and gift log.

As the head of City Council, the Mayor is allocated an annual operating budget for office supplies and technology, community events and meeting expenses. The Mayor’s Office budget also includes memberships in associations where the Mayor represents the City of St. Catharines including the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative and LUMCO: the Large Urban Mayor’s Caucus of Ontario. Continue reading →

Province Improving Customer Service and Convenience on Go Trains and Buses This Spring

“We have (free Wi-Fi) in our stations, and this trial will lead us to bringing Wi-Fi to our buses and trains. This will move us toward our goal of making transit an easier, more convenient and more enjoyable experience for everyone. And more great improvements are on the way.” — Phil Verster, President and Chief Executive Officer, Metrolinx

News from the Ontario Government

Posted February 26^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ontario is introducing Wi-Fi on GO trains and buses, and launching an improved GO Transit website and trip planner, making it easier and more convenient for commuters and families to use GO Transit.

As a first step towards introducing Wi-Fi service on all GO Transit vehicles, Metrolinx will test the service on two GO trains and four GO buses to examine service quality and collect feedback from transit users. Free Wi-Fi is already available at the majority of GO stations and bus terminals across the system. Continue reading →

Canadian athletes a earned 29 medals –  “Our national best” –  Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

A Statement by Canada’s Prime Minister on the closing of the 2018 Winter Olympics

Posted February 25th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today (February 25th) issued the following statement on the closing of the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea:

“Today, as the 2018 Olympic Winter Games draw to a close in PyeongChang, we celebrate the extraordinary athletes who represented Canada during this year’s events. Team Canada reached new heights this year and earned 29 medals – our national best. Continue reading →

“I have nothing but the highest respect for the EMS workers, but the issue is no matter how hard they’re working, they can’t keep up with this system.” – Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates

News from the Constituency Office of Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates

Posted  February 25th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates. File photo

Niagara Falls, Ontario  – Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates made the following statement this February 22nd  on the floor of the Legislature regarding recent comments that indicate that Niagara EMS will require an additional 1.16 million dollars to cope with growing demands.

“I’d like to talk about a major issue in Niagara, and that is the EMS crisis we’re facing. Let me begin by saying I have nothing but the highest respect for the EMS workers, but the issue is no matter how hard they’re working, they can’t keep up with this system.” Continue reading →

“The Lake Erie Action Plan will work toward revitalizing waterfront communities such as the City of Port Colborne, protecting public health, strengthening Niagara’s south coast economy and ensuring that the city’s water treatment plant is less vulnerable due to the affects of phosphorus and algae in Lake Erie.”  – Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for             Niagara Centre

A News Release from Environment and Climate Change Canada

Posted February 24th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Centre (Ontario) MP Vance Badawey

A Brief Foreword  from Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper – Niagara At Large would like to thank Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey for passing this media release to our online news site for use.

As an MP, and going back to his years as a mayor and regional councillor for the City of Port Colborne, and as a former member of a bi-national committee of Great Lakes mayor, Vance Badawey has continued to demonstrate a keen interest in restoring and protecting the environmental health of the Great Lakes. At a time when we hardly have enough individuals in government who place environment issues high on their agenda, he deserves our thanks and support for that.

The News Release

Protecting and managing water quality in our lakes and rivers is essential for the well-being of Canadians, our environment and economic prosperity. Safeguarding our environment and growing our economy go hand in hand.

What is washing up along some of the shores of Lake Erie on too  regular basis speak to a serious water quality problem.

This is why this February 22^nd,  the Governments of Canada and Ontario have released the final Lake Erie Action Plan.

The plan identifies more than 120 federal, provincial and partner actions, using mandatory and voluntary approaches, to help achieve the goal of reducing phosphorus entering Lake Erie by 40 per cent.  The plan will be reviewed and revised as needed over time to ensure continued progress towards achievement of targets. Continue reading →

 Region’s Taxpayers Deserve Full and Open Accoutability for Multi-Million-Dollar Police Budget Deficit and Former Police Chief’s $870,000 Retirement Package

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted February 22nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

When Niagara regional councillors hold their next meeting of the whole council this coming March 1st, let’s hope that they don’t treat us to another three hours of pillaring the Mayor of Pelham and his council over their finances.

Niagara Falls regional councilor and Niagara Police Services Board chair Bob Gale

We could also do without another 10 to 20 minutes of Niagara Falls regional councillor Bob Gale reading out a prepared list of glowing achievement – interspersed with pot shots at the news media and calls for apologies from critics – that a Niagara Regional Police Services Board chaired by none other than him has apparently racked up over the past few years.

At the coming March 1st meeting, it would be nice if our regional councillors could focus more attention on other issues that matter to people who live, work and do business, and pay taxes in Niagara, like Niagara regional police budget. Continue reading →

News from Ontario’s New Democratic Party

Posted February 22nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword from NAL publisher Doug Draper – Since Cindy Forster, MPP for the Welland (Niagara Centre) Riding, saddened a lot of people in the region late last year with her decision not to run for another term in this June’s provincial election, many have been wondering who in the party would  run in her place, and now we know.)

Jeff Burch

Welland in Niagara, Ontario — This Wednesday, February 21st, Niagara Centre NDP members nominated community advocate and CEO for the Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre Jeff Burch to carry the party’s banner going into the June 2018 election.   

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath spoke to the enthusiastic crowd.    “Niagara families shouldn’t have to settle with a Liberal premier that cuts, or a Conservative party that’s planning billions more in cuts,” said Horwath.

“We’ve seen the results of that — years of budget freezes at Niagara Public Health, overcrowded hospitals and a long-term care system that is failing families. It simply doesn’t have to be this way. It’s time to get good things done for people – and I’m thrilled that Jeff is on board to fight for Niagara families.”   Continue reading →

Proposed Legislation Would Respond to “Buy American” Procurement Policies In New York State and Texas

A News Release from the Ontario Government

Posted February 21st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

The Peace Bridge crossing upper Niagara River between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, New York is a major corridor for traded goods between the province and state, and the two countries.

Ontario is standing up for workers and businesses with the introduction of legislation that, if passed, would allow the government to take measured actions in response to discriminatory American procurement policies.

The proposed Fairness in Procurement Act would allow Ontario to take responsive action to address unfair government procurement practices that are being implemented in New York State and Texas, and considered in other states. These policies represent a worrying trend towards protectionism and prevent Ontario businesses from accessing cross-border procurement opportunities. Continue reading →

And Here’s A Warning To You , Dear Citizens – When Hearing Or Watching A Niagara Regional Council Meeting, ‘DO NOT BELIEVE YOUR LYING EARS OR EYES!

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted February 20^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Wow, is that Bob Gale, one of the City of Niagara Falls’ gifts to regional council and chair of the Niagara Police Services Board, up there on the screen behind Twilight Zone host Rod Serling?

Or am I just ‘travelling through another dimension,’ as Rod would say, ‘not only of sight and sound, but of mind and imagination.’

No, that’s Bob Gale, all right!

He’s right up there on the video screen during a recent February 8^th meeting of Niagara regional council  – just minutes after a bunch of regional councillors got through three more hours of smearing Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn with their feces over his town council’s finances. Continue reading →

It’s High Time the Rest of Us – In the Adult World – Help or Get Out of the Way

“Come mothers and fathers
Throughout the land
And don’t criticize
What you can’t understand
Your sons and your daughters
Are beyond your command
Your old road is
Rapidly agin’.
Please get out of the new one
If you can’t lend your hand
For the times they are a-changin’.”

–       from the Bob Dylan song, ‘The Times They Are A Changin’’.

A Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted February 19^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Consider those lyrics from a 1960s Dylan anthem that helped inspire a generation of you people back then to action, to the following quote from Cameron Kasky, 1 17-year-old student from the Parkland, Florida high school where 17 of his classmates were slaughtered in the latest mass shooting in America this past February 14^th.

“My generation won’t stand for this,” Kasky told a cable news network in the wake of this blood bath committed by an estranged 19 year old with the help of some of the weakest gun laws in the developed world – making it possible for a person that young to easily purchase a military style AR-15 assault rifle in a state where he could not yet buy a bottle of alcohol or case of beer.

‘‘We are losing our lives while the adults are playing around,’’ Cameron Kasky said. Continue reading →

Featuring A Who’s Who List of Speaders In the Animal Advocacy Field, including Karen Davis of United Poultry Concerns, Darren Chang, Anita Kranjc and Ian Purdy from Toronto Pig Save, Rob Laidlaw from Zoocheck Canada, and Sandra Higgins from Eden Farmed Animal Sanctuary and her Go Vegan World campaign.

A Call-Out from Niagara Action for Animals, a not-for-profit organization of citizens in the Niagara region

Posted February 19th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

THINKING ABOUT ANIMALS CONFERENCE at Pond Inlet, Brock University.

Niagara Action for Animals (NAfA) is supporting this event to be held on March 1st & 2nd.

The conference will focus on two broad themes: Structural Violence  & Trans-species Social Justice, and Resistance, Rescue & Sanctuary.  Contact: animalconference@Brocku.ca  for more information. Continue reading →

Tory  Outcast Patrick Brown Has Joined the Ontario PC Party’s Leadership Race

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted February 18th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Just when it looked like Ontario’s Progressive Party was beginning to regroup and gain ground on filling its leadership role just four months away from a June 7th provincial election, guess who pops out of the jack-in-the-box?

Ex-Ontario PC Party leader Patrick Brown wants his job back

Why it’s Patrick Brown, who just resigned from the party’s leadership this January (although, now he is claiming he never told party executives he was stepping down) over allegations of sexual misconduct.

This past Friday, February 16th – two hours before the deadline closed for entering one’s name as a leadership candidate and only a few hours after he had been notified by party executives that he had been ejected from the PC Caucus, “effective immediately – Patrick Brown tossed his hat into the ring with four other leadership candidates. Continue reading →

Absolutely No One In Civilian Life Needs Assault Weapons. Their Only Purpose Is To Kill

A Commentary by Linda McKellar

Posted February 18th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

What is shocking and disgusting in the wake of the mass shooting at a high school in Florida this past February 14th is that we all know the names and faces of the gunmen before we know the victims? Murderers should be made as anonymous as possible and not given glory.

A makeshift memorial for young victims of mass shooting at in Florida

That’s what many of them want and what inspires other crazies. We remember murderers  – Gacy, Dahlmer, Manson…. Who remembers victims?

And when it comes to any talk of sensible gun laws following one of these mass shootings; “Now is not the time,” we hear every time. When is the time?

In the United States, you need all kinds of ID to buy some benign pharmaceuticals but not to buy a gun. You can be on a “no fly” list and buy a gun. You can buy guns at a gun show. Continue reading →

Working In Partnership to Grow Ontario’s Food and Beverage Industry

News from the Constituency Office of St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

Posted February 18, 2018 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

Niagara, Ontario – This February 16^th, Jim Bradley, MPP for St. Catharines made the announcement at 13th Street Winery in St. Catharines, along with Chris Bittle MP for St. Catharines on behalf of Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay.

With support provided through Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative, the winery received $100,000 to purchase and install a hopper, tanks, insulated bins, and upgrade temperature control systems to help increase labour productivity, increasing productivity and leveraging innovation to grow their business and the local economy.

13th Street Winery is one of over 300  Ontario food processors enhancing their competitiveness, innovating through the introduction of new products and creating new jobs thanks to support through Growing Forward 2. Continue reading →

“Happiness is a warm gun – bang, bang, shoot, shoot.” – from a song written by John Lennon, who was shot to death outside his New York City home in 1980

A Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted February 15^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

As someone with a number of friends and relatives, including a 26 year old daughter, living in the United States, I cannot help but say a few words about the latest gun carnage that occurred there because I worry for my loved ones south of the border, and I know many of them worry too.

Students in Florida mourn classmates gunned down in latest mass shooting in America

I was enjoying some time out this February 14^th , when I returned home in the afternoon to “Breaking News” on the cable news channels about another mass shooting in America – this one at a high school in what, by all appearances, seems a quintessential  suburban community called Parkland in the State of Florida.

Seventeen dead!  Almost all of them young people in their teens!

Another dozen or so badly wounded, in what was being described already by reporters on CNN and MSNBC as one of the single worst mass shootings in a country that has already gained an infamous reputation around the world for this kind of gun carnage. Continue reading →

Join the Discussion on Tuesday, February 20^th at 6:30 p.m. at Niagara College in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

An Invite from the ‘Saving Thundering Waters Forest’ citizens group and Trout Unlimited

Posted this February 15th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Saving Thundering Waters Forest group invites everyone to this event: Water Scape — Community discussions on Protecting Water for Future Generations

Tuesday, February 20
6:30 p.m.
Niagara College, Room W216, 135 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-theLake, L0S 1JO

Presented in partnership with Save Thundering Waters Group and Trout Unlimited

WaterScape is a collaborative effort of CELA (the Canadian Environmental Law Association), OEN (the Ontario Environment Network), and OHI, in cooperation with the local partners listed above.

The goals for the community discussions are: Continue reading →