Niagara At Large

A Brief One by Doug Draper

Posted February 22nd, 2017 on Niagara At Large

From a cover of the New York City tabloid The Post, published last year when Sarah Palin endorsed Trump

One of my all-time favourite commentators on the human condition – the late, great George Carlin – once said; ’Think about how stupid the average person is, then realize that have of them are stupider than that.”

We can only imagine what George, who left us nine years ago, just a few months before he was to receive the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, would say today, because unlike almost any time I can think of in the last 50 years, we seem to be living in the ‘Age of Stupid.’

I am remind of that almost daily when I hear someone say in so many words to me or another, on the street or in a letter to the editor or on the radio or one of the cable news channels; “Why are you being so hard on Donald Trump. Why don’t you at least given him a chance?”

Every time I hear a line like that, instead of wasting to much of my time trying to debate or argue with the individual, I remind myself of the following wise advise once shared by Mark Twain himself –

By the way and thinking of Trump and all of his hate-laced, racist rhetoric, especially over the past couple of years, and the spike we are seeing in verbal and physical attacks on Jews, Muslims, African Americans and other groups, not only in his own United States but across the border -yes – right here in Canada, a statement just came out this February 21st from the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect. Continue reading →

An invite from the Unitarian Congregation of Niagara (UCN) in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted February 21st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Intro to UCN’s Invite from NAL publisher and environment writer Doug Draper –

I walked out the front door of my home this weekend to the sight of people walking by, covered in nothing more from the waste up but a sweatshirt or light jacket. One guy, his dog prancing along on a leash, was wearing a short-sleeve shirt and a pair of shorts – all just shortly after sunrise on a day, not in April or May or June, but in the middle of February!

That and the possibility that before this February is over, we may see more days with record-high temperatures for any February over the past 100 years may, at first blush, seem like a great think for those of us who are no fans of winter and shovelling snow.

Get past the blush and novelty of a few mid spring-like days in winter though and it should dawn on at least some of us that this – like so many other bouts of wild weather swings we have experienced in recent years – is really quite disturbing. Continue reading →

“Wynne doesn’t get it. … People can’t live in a home without power. Parents shouldn’t have to put their kids to bed in a house without heat.” – Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

A News Release from the Office of Ontario New Democratic Party Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted February 21st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

One of many demonstrations held at Queen’s Park in recent times over the mess Wynne government, and the government’s last premier, Dalton McGuinty, have made of hydro services.

Queen’s Park – Premier Kathleen Wynne’s Liberals had a chance Tuesday to join with the NDP and end the practice of disconnecting hydro in the winter – but voted against it.

“Last year 60,000 households had their hydro cut off,” said NDP Leader Andrea Horwath, who tabled the motion on Tuesday morning, the Legislative Assembly’s first day back in session. “Now, the Liberals want to play politics. They want to hold their power to stop winter disconnections as a bargaining chip so they can force the legislature to support their 158-page Harper-style omnibus bill.” Continue reading →

A Message from Niagara Action for Animals, an animal care and advocacy group in Niagara, Ontario

Posted February 20th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Dear friends of Animals 

URGENT HELP NEEDED!

NAfA is currently in need of foster homes for a large scale rescue were are undertaking. We have found space for some in our foster network but are still in need of foster homes for four male cats.

If you could spare a room or space in your house for one or two of our kitties in need, please email: jamicoughler@gmail.com . Continue reading →

– Transportation Master Plan Public Information Centres to Start Across Niagara Tuesday, February 21st

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted February 20th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Region – Beginning on Tuesday, February, 21st the Region will be hosting its fourth series of Public Information Centres on the development of its Transportation Master Plan.

Buses connecting with St. Catharines, Welland and other Niagara municipalities at Brock University

Since the last Public Information Centres held in November/December of 2016, the Project Team has developed preliminary recommendations for Niagara Region’s transportation system.  Continue reading →

 By Brent Patterson, The Council of Canadians, a nation-wide citizens advocacy group

Posted February 20^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau must “get real” about the devastating impacts of neo-liberal policies, including free trade.

The Canadian Press reports, “Prime Minister Justin Trudeau used one of Germany’s most prestigious black-tie galas to tell business leaders to ‘get real’ about the addressing the anxieties of their workers in an uncertain world. Trudeau delivered the no-holds-barred message to an audience of 400 politicians, business leaders and other notables at the annual St. Matthew’s Banquet in the opulent Hamburg city hall.”

The Canadian Press article adds, “[The prime minister told] the corporate elite seated before him to shape up, and stop profiting at the expense of their employees. ‘No more brushing aside the concerns of our workers and our citizens’, the prime minister said in prepared remarks.” Continue reading →

Invite to a FREE Screening this Tuesday, February 21st of the Film – CONTAINMENT

Hosted by the Sierra Club Niagara Group of Buffalo/Western New York

Posted February 20th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Buffalo, New York – The film Containment discusses the intractable problem of what to do with long-lived nuclear waste and how we might protect humans and other living things from hazardous waste exposure, now and into the future.

Following the film there will be a  panel discussion of the West Valley Nuclear Waste Facility, our very own nuclear waste storage site 30 miles south of Buffalo.

Come See CONTAINMENT

 Free & Open to the Public 6:30PM, TUESDAY, February 21st DAEMEN COLLEGE ~ Schenck Hall (Rm. 107) 4380 Main Street, Amherst, New York – clear here for directions on  [Map] – Panel Discussion after the Film

Hosted by: Sierra Club Niagara Group with NIRS, CEC, SNI/WaterWalkerz,   Daemen College Global & Local Sustainability Program, and Paul A. Saffrin Center for Sustainability & Civic Engagement.

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.

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

By Doug Draper

Posted February 17th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

This is something that will never stop being outrageous to me. And it is something you and all your friends and neighbours should feel is outrageous too!

One of our fellow citizens in this region of Niagara gets sued for a total of $200,000 by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation (the board of which is stacked with regional councilors and with mayors of some of our local municipalities) and by the NPCA’s former CAO (now CAO for Niagara’s regional government) Carmen D’Angelo.

Ed Smith, recently talking to reporters about the lawsuit launched against him by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority and its former CAO. File photo by Doug Draper

And why? Because the NPCA and D’Angelo found things they claim are  defamatory to them in a list of questions and concerns raised a report that was circulated around to local politicians and others about the way the NPCA has gone about spending  our tax dollars.

The citizen beingsued is Ed Smith, a St. Catharines resident and retired Canadian Armed Forces officer who the better part of the past year has been asking many of the same questions growing numbers of others across Niagara and Hamilton are asking about the NPCA’s hiring and firing practices, its land deals, its awarding of contracts to other parties, and other matters involving the spending of millions of dollars it receives from we, the people, each year.

In my view, and in the view of many of his friends and supporters, Ed Smith could be any one of us who dares to confront a government body when they feel it may be doing something questionable with our tax money, and demanding answers. Continue reading →

A Dismantling or Elimination of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency would be Devastating to Western New York – Buffalo, New York area Congressman Brian Higgins Warns

Take the U.S. Congressman’s Warning to Mean it would be Devastating for the Rest of Us Living in  the Great Lakes Region

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

Posted February 17th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

(A Note from Niagara At Large publisher Doug Draper – Since the Congressman’s office circulated this news release, Trump’s choice to head up the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – … Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt, a climate denier who has sued the EPA several times and who sees the agency as a threat to corporate interests in the petro-chemical, coal and other sectors – was confirmed this February 17th by a Republican-dominated U.S. Senate.

Trump himself, who has already started rolling back Obama policies for acting on climate and other environmental threats, campaigned last year on a promise to ultimately get rid of the EPA if elected. Continue reading →

A Brief One from Doug Draper

Posted February 17th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

How many times I have wished, when the whole world seems to be going mad in this age of Trump, that my all-time favourite commentator on everything that is insane in modern life – the late, great George Carlin – was still around to share his take.

Then when I go looking through my library of Carlin witticisms, there are plenty there that fit the occasion, including this one I am sharing with you now.

Now use the space at the bottom of this one to tell us what you think.

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

 “The United States and Canada have worked cooperatively for decades to ensure efficient border management while promoting travel, trade, and border security between our two countries. Adding an additional and unneeded layer of screening for the hundreds of thousands of individuals crossing the U.S.-Canada border would create unnecessary congestion across our infrastructure and customs processes.”                                                – U.S. Congresswoman Louise Slaughter representing the Niagara, County/Western New York region.

News from the Buffalo, New York Office of U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins

Posted February 16th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

In Bipartisan Letter to Homeland Security Secretary Members Stress Need to Consider Unique Relationship Between the U.S. and Canada.

The Peace Bridge crossing the upper Niagara River between Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario and Buffalo, New York. File photo by Doug Draper

As the critical relationship between the United States and Canada is in the spotlight after Canadian Prime Minster Justin Trudeau’s visit to Washington, D.C., several members of the House of Representatives Northern Border Caucus are sending a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly cautioning against the existing proposal requiring implementation of biometric screening at Land Ports of Entry (LPOE).  Continue reading →

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted February 16th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario’s regional government headquarters

Niagara, Ontario – Regional Council is pursuing up to $6.6 million in federal funding to improve access to high-speed Internet in rural Niagara.

Introduced late last year, the Government of Canada’s Connect To Innovate (CTI) program will invest up to $500 million to bring broadband internet to 300 rural and remote communities across Canada. The program has identified 33 eligible locations in Niagara as potential candidates for funding. Continue reading →

A Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted February 14^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

In the children’s fairy tale ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’, there is a wicked queen who looks in a mirror and asks; “Who is the fairest in the land,” expecting to hear the mirror answer back, each and every day, that the fairest one is her.

When, one day, the mirror answered that that there was a fairer one than her by the name of Snow White, the queen transformed herself into an old farm woman who knocked on Snow White’s door with a basket of apples she had treated with poison.

Snow White was at first reluctant to try one of the apples, as red and juicy as they looked. But when the nasty queen-turned-farm-woman bit into a safe half of one, Snow White tried a bite herself, then fell to the ground where she was later found by her dwarf friends who took her for dead.

I could not help but think of the tale about Snow White taking a bite of the poison apple after reading an announcement Sandy Annunziata, a regional councillor for the Niagara municipality of Fort Erie and chair of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s board of directors, had posted this February 13^th on the NPCA’s website. Continue reading →

A Commentary by the Ontario Clean Air Alliance

By February 14th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Since 2002 Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG’s) price of nuclear power has risen by 60%. And to add insult to injury OPG is now seeking a 180% price increase to pay for the continued operation of its high-cost Pickering Nuclear Station and the re-building of Darlington’s aging reactors.

Meanwhile, OPG continues to tell MPPs and other decision makers that nuclear power is our lowest cost option for keeping the lights on and that it is simply not possible to import low-cost power from Quebec. Both of these claims are false.

According to Hydro Quebec’s CEO, Eric Martel, Quebec has 3,000 megawatts of surplus power available for export. Furthermore, according to Mr. Martel, Hydro Quebec is more than willing to sign long-term fixed-price export contracts. Continue reading →

 Over 350 positions available in 2017

An Invite to Job Seekers from the Niagara Parks Commission

Posted February 14th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls, Ontario  – The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC), one of the region’s largest employers with over 1,700 full time and seasonal employees, will host its annual Job Fair on Saturday, February 25, at the Niagara Falls campus of Niagara College.

Niagara Park’s iconic Floral Clock. Photo courtesy of Niagara Parks Commission

The Job Fair allows NPC 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 NPC’s Human Resources Department will also be on-hand to help answer any questions. Continue reading →

“Mayor Joyner, Mayor Campion, Mayor Jeffs, Mayor Darte, Mayor Diodati, Mayor Maloney and the three other Regional Councillors Baty, Quirk and Timms, does the new Chair speak for you?  Do you also consider your citizens as a special interest group?  It is time for Niagara citizens to start demanding answers from their elected officials.” – a Call-Out for Accountability from Niagara citizen Ed Smith

A Commentary by Ed Smith, a Niagara, Ontario citizen, community activist and retired Canadian Armed Forces officer

Posted February 13^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara citizen watchdog Ed Smith echoes calls of many across Niagara on NPCA is spending our tax money.

I attended the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) annual general meeting on Jan 18th.  The hall was filled to overflowing; such was the level of public interest in this meeting.

A new Chairperson was elected at that Board meeting and with that election perhaps an optimistic person could have a sense of hope for the future of Conservation in Niagara.  It did not take long for the new Chair to lay waste to any hopes for a reversal of direction at the NPCA.

In a statement to the public on the 23^rd of January, a scant five Niadays after being appointed, Chairman Annunziata sent a message that many saw as disrespectful, arrogant and tone deaf.
Continue reading →

“We remain committed to moving forward on energy infrastructure projects that will create jobs while respecting the environment (and)  particularly along our border and at the Great Lakes, we will continue to work together to enhance the quality of our air and water.”

“The partnership between the United States and Canada will continue to be unique and a model for the world.”

Joint Statement from President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Posted February 13^th , 2017 on Niagara At Large

Trump (left) greets Triudeau at White House

Washington, D.C. – President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau held their first official meeting today(this February 13th) in Washington, D.C. and affirmed their longstanding commitment to close cooperation in addressing both the challenges facing our two countries and problems around the world. Continue reading →

 – Who, to use the Donald’s words, will be the ‘Winner’, and who will be the ‘Loser’?

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted February 13^th, 2016 on Niagara At Large

Of all the email I found in my inbox over the past weekend, the one below was the scariest one – and believe me, in this mucked up world, there are more than a few scary ones.

Here’s hoping that somewhat like the late British prime minister and 1930 appeaser Neville Chamberlain, Canada’s Prime Minister doesn’t leave his meeting with Trump declaring, in so many words and ways, ‘peace in our time’ and; ‘I’m sure I can do business with this man’.

The one I’m referring to at the moment though outlined the “itinerary” for this Monday, February 13^th for Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau – one that outlines his day at the White House with the orange-hair, ‘America First’, winner-take-all terminator now occupying the Oval Office.

Here is an abbreviated text of Trudeau’s Itinerary –

Itinerary for Monday, February 13, 2017

7:00 a.m. The Prime Minister will depart for Washington, D.C., United States of America.    Continue reading →

“Young people need … a partner ready to fight for paid internships, training opportunities and better work opportunities that can lead to good, stable jobs.” –                                          Ontario NDP employment critic Catherine Fife

A Commentary on the State of the Job Scene from Ontario’s New Democratic Party

Posted February 13^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Ontario’s Wynne government circulated a media release this February 1oth, boasting that this past January 28,8000 jobs were created in the province. Nowhere in the release did it say that a majority of those jobs were part-time.

Queen’s Park – According to this month’s Labour Force Survey, of the 28,800 jobs created in Ontario in January, 23,500 were part-time.  This continues the disturbing trend, identified in the 2016 year end jobs figures released last month, which shows dramatic increase in part-time, precarious work in this province – numbers the NDP says show that while the cost of living in Ontario is rising fast, families’ incomes aren’t. Continue reading →

Watching the Deconstruction of  Decades of Hard-Fought Environmental Progress

A Commentary by Leslie Daniels, a Niagara, Ontario writer and longtime environmental activist

Posted February 12^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

No one likes to be contradicted. So ordering silence when one can serves a purpose. The problem is that this has been going on for ages and we as the human race will be the ones to suffer for it – again.

Just when we thought we were making progress in the world coming to terms with issues that are affecting our very survival as a species. We had been warned decades ago by scientists like Rachel Carson and conservationists and naturalists like Grey Owl. Continue reading →

An invited from the Sierra Club chapter of Western New York

Posted February 12th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

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

A Call-Out from Democracy Watch

Posted February 10th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Dear Friend,

The Kinder Morgan pipeline company, and companies that will benefit from the pipeline, gave Premier Christy Clark’s B.C. Liberal Party more than $550,000 in the past few years.

On January 12th, Premier Clark approved Kinder Morgan’s proposal to add a new pipeline that will carry crude oil from the Alberta tar sands to the B.C. coast for shipping in oil tankers to other countries. Continue reading →

News from Canada’s Health Coalitions, citizen advocacy groups for quality public health care

Posted February 10^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Across Canada – Canada’s Health Coalitions signed a joint statement and held a media conference today on the recent bilateral health care deals and called for a united health accord. 

Since late December the federal government has abandoned a national health accord negotiation and is now signing bilateral health deals with the provinces and territories. These deals will not fund public health care at the necessary levels to maintain today’s public services. Canada’s Health Coalitions are calling for a national health accord which ensures everyone can access needed health care services in accordance with the Canada Health Act.  Continue reading →

International Joint Commission to hold Public Meetings this March in St. Catharines, Ontario and Buffalo, New York

By Sally Cole-Misch, Canada-U.S. International Joint Commission

Posted February 10th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

The Canadian and US governments presented their progress report last fall on efforts to restore the Great Lakes by meeting the goals of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.

Our Great Lakes from space

The IJC has now released its initial assessment of that progress in a draft Triennial Assessment of Progress report. The TAP report was released in draft form so we can hear from you before it becomes a final report to both countries.

“Now that the IJC has released its draft assessment of progress report, we’re eager to hear from Great Lakes residents,” US Commissioner Rich Moy said at the time of the report’s release. Continue reading →

By Doug Draper

Posted February 10th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The family of missing Niagara woman Ashley Simpson received unanimous support from regional councillors this February 9th for calling on the federal government to provide support for parents who take time away from work to search for a missing child.

St.ill missing St. Catharines woman Ashley Simpson. Photo courtesy of the Simpson family.

“Ashley’s family is very frustrated (and) we need someone to get the ball rolling here’ said family friend and supporter Steven Soos as he stood with member of the family and read a request for the regional government to send a letter to the federal government, asking that families that leave their jobs to go searching for missing loved ones be covered by EI benefits and not risk being left with no funds to support them. “This is just one small step (to support the family members) in a year of frustration.” Continue reading →

News from the Women in Niagara (WIN) Council and Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Posted February 10th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Women In Niagara (WIN) council in concert with the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Rosemary Hale, an accomplished author and passionate advocate for the arts in Niagara – is this year’s recipient of the International Women’s Day Award.

The award will be bestowed to Hale during the 16th Annual International Women’s Day Luncheon, to be held on Friday, March 3, 2017 at Club Roma in St. Catharines.

“The combination of Rosemary’s commitment to expanding artistic culture in Niagara, and her caring and supportive nature of those in this industry make her a well-deserved recipient of this award, as we celebrate International Women’s Day,” says Ruth Unrau, Chair of WIN. Continue reading →

An Invite from the Niagara Centre NDP Association

Posted February 10th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

A  Reminder to All to Join in this Event in Welland/Niagara this Saturday, February11tth from 1 to 4 p.m.

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

–         ACall-Out to Our Government To Adequately Fund Child Welfare Services

 An Invitation to you from the Niagara Centre NDP

 Posted February 8th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

 Niagara, Ontario –  This coming Saturday, February 11th, The Niagara Centre NDP invites you to Have a Heart for our indigenous youth: call on our government to adequately fund child welfare services.

Hi-Ho Mistahey, produced by indigenous filmmaker Alanis Obomsawin, will be screened at this event following by a group discussion

The Niagara Centre NDP invites you to mark the National Day of Action on Equity for Indigenous Youth on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, at the Community Room in Welland Civic Square (City Hall) 60 East Main Street, in Welland. 

Canada is failing its indigenous youth – and it’s a tragedy and a national disgrace.

In a historic ruling in January 2016, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal found the Canadian government racially discriminated against 163, 000 First Nations kids by systematically underfunding federal services that put their lives at risk. 
 Continue reading →

–         Council Wants ‘Qualified and Intendent Citizens’ with ‘Conservation Expertise’ on Board

A News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted February 8th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Well hallelujah! Some of our municipal politicians are listening.

Pelham Mayor David Augustyn and his council want non-politicians with expertise in environmental and conservation fields sitting on the NPCA board.

Growing numbers of residents across the Niagara region have been arguing for at least a year now that all or most of the 15 individuals sitting on the board of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority should not be elected politicians appointed by other elected politicians but citizens from across the region who have some expertise in the environmental and conservation field.

Now, for the first time in as far back as this long-time environmental reporter can remember, the council of a local municipality in Niagara is taking the idea that the board should be made up of citizens with expertise in conservation matters seriously enough to do something about it. Continue reading →

A Call-Out posted by Doug Draper, publisher, Niagara At Large

February 7th, 2017  

Ed Smith

“I have been subjected to castigation, ridicule and now I am being threatened by legal action by my own government. … I willfully dedicated 25 years of my professional life fighting for the ‘ideal’ of Canada. Countless others have sacrificed much more than that, and there is nothing that will divert me from doing right by that.”          

– Ed Smith, a Niagara, Ontario  citizen and community leader, and a retired Canadian Armed Forces officer, speaking this past November, 2016 about being threatened with a lawsuit by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority.

Since Ed Smith spoke those words, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority – a public body funded with millions of dollars annually of our municipal tax money – and its former CAO Carmen D’Angelo (now CAO for Niagara’s regional government) have slapped him with a defamation suit totalling $200,000. Continue reading →

A Brief Update by Doug Draper

Posted February 7^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – We posted a news commentary on Niagara At Large this February 3^rd,  focusing on concerns raised, even by Western New York area Congressman Chris Collins (a strong supporter of Trump through his race for the U.S. presidency), about an executive order Trump recently signed that could make border security so restrictive that crossing the Peace Bridge and other border bridges in the greater Niagara area could become a nightmare.

I will provide a link to that news commentary below and, along with that, I also hope to turn your attention to a story – published this past January 28^th – in The Buffalo News on this matter because, dear folks, whether you personally cross the border to shop or visit friends and relatives or not, anything Trump does that seriously jams up traffic at the border could do countless hundreds of millions of dollars of damage to job and the economy of our regions in both countries. Continue reading →

Vance Badawey is new Vice-Chair of Ottawa’s Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations

News from the Constituency Office of Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey

Posted February 7th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Centre MP and former Port Colborne mayor Vance Badawey

Ottawa, Ontario –  Niagara Centre Member of Parliament, Vance Badawey is pleased to announce that he has been selected by his peers to serve as Vice-Chair of The Standing Joint Committee for the Scrutiny of Regulations (REGS).

REGS is tasked with reviewing and scrutinizing regulations and other statutory instruments that have been passed by Parliament. 

The Committee serves as an overview body which ensures that regulations have been implemented in a way that complies with the letter, and spirit, of the law.  Continue reading →

It’s back to the Status Quo when it comes to Municipal Governance in Niagara – At Least for Now

A News Brief by Doug Draper

Posted February 7th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Arguing that democracy in Niagara would not be better served by having dual-duty representation on city and regional councillors, a majority of St. Catharines councillors voted against the idea following a public meeting this February 6th.

St. Catharines City Hall

“There is no proof that double-direct (another way of saying double-duty) representation will result in any improvement (in governance for citizens) … There is no evidence to suggestion communication will be improved,” said St. Catharines councillor Bruce Williamson, who was one of the first out of the gate to say he would vote against dual-duty after a majority of citizens who spoke earlier in the evening expressed their opposition. Continue reading →

A Call-Out from the Niagara Poverty Reduction Network

Posted February 6^st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – In order for the Niagara Poverty Reduction Network to build a community that understands and works to reduce the root causes of poverty we need to communicate with local people, organizations and businesses about the issues surrounding poverty.

To do this, we are seeking speakers for our Speakers Bureau.  Attached to this email you will find information about requirements and benefits of being part of the Speakers Bureau. Continue reading →

“And we won’t leave much of a trace, either. Thank God for that.” – the late great American satirist and all-round social critic, George Carlin

George Carlin’s take on what we humans are doing to the planet, with an Introduction by Niagara At Large publisher Doug Draper

Posted Febraury 5^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Intro by Doug Draper – I want to make a confession here that is embarrassing because it shows what kind of a fool I’ve been been for most of my adult life.

I was once of those naïve young people who thought that I could do something in my own small way to save the planet form environmental degradation.

In my mid-teens, I made the mistake of reading’Silent Spring’ – a book by a late American scientist Rachel Carson, who warned that we humans were emitting agents into the environment and otherwise altering it in ways that could have deadly consequences for a web of life forms on the planet that includes us.

Corporations that produced the pesticides and other agents discussed in Silent Spring issued warnings of their own following the book’s 1962 publication that Carson was engaging in science fiction and fear-mongering, but I didn’t listen.

That’s poor dumb me  in the black-and-white photo to the right – the one wearing the gas mask and holding up a sign reading; “If you aren’t part of the solution, you are part of the pollution” – still in my teens and participating in the very frist Earth Day in the spring of 1970 when, as some of the people working in the factory I was demonstrating in front of, said I should have been in school that weekday morning, working on multiplication tables.

Well, I went on in school and graduated with a Master’s degree in journalism before – wouldn’t you know it – spending the better part of the next three decades working as a full-time environment reporter at a daily newspaper in Niagara.

Unbenown to me at the time, what a waste of the middle years of my life that would turn out to be! Continue reading →

A Call-Out from Erick Smith, Executive Director, The Broadbent Institute, founded by former Canadian NPD leader Ed Broadbent

Posted February 5th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

I want to start by thanking you (many Canadians out there ) for all the support they’ve given to proportional representation over the past few months. The breadth of people who have come together to advocate for a better democracy has been heartening.

Even though Justin Trudeau has said he’s abandoning his commitment to electoral reform, we’re not giving up. The stakes are too high. We need to tell Mr. Trudeau that abandoning his clear promise to Canadians is unacceptable. Continue reading →

 Wastes Would Likely Be Shipped Through Niagara, Ontario/Buffalo, New York Area, Crossing One or More    Niagara River Bridges

The following Statement has been circulated by Gracia Janes of Niagara, Ontario and Environment Convenor for Canada’s National Council of Women and environmental representative for Ontario’s Council of Women. It was issued as a press release  by the plaintiffs in the U.S. court case against the transport of extremely dangerous liquid nuclear waste, containing Highly Enriched Uranium from Chalk river to South Carolina, which, given the Court’s decision, indeed puts the Niagara region at risk . 

Posted on February 3rd, 2017 on Niagara At Large

In spite of a disappointing ruling by a US Judge on Thursday afternoon, February 2, public opposition is growing to an unprecedented plan to ship 23,000 litres (6000 gallons) of intensely radioactive liquid from Chalk River, Ontario, to the Savannah River Site in North Carolina – a distance of over 2000 kilometres. Continue reading →

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted February 3^rd, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Those of us who live north of the U.S. border had to know it was coming when Donald J. Trump took the oath of office as the 45^th president of the United States.

How much aim is Trump now taking on Canada-U.S. border

Americans are living in a state of “carnage.” so says the new president, and it has quite a bit to do with his ‘alternative facts’ that ‘virtually every other country around the world’ is taking advantage of the United States, threatening the U.S. and its people with violence, or otherwise ripping it off.

In this us-versus-them world Trump lives in it was only a matter of days following his January 20^th before he would set his sights on the Canadian border and he is doing so already with the revocation of at least some Nexus cards on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border and plans – according to another one of those infamous ‘executive orders’ he’s been signing since entering the White House – to require all Canadians to undergo “biometric tests” when crossing the border into the United States. Continue reading →

A Commentary by Special Guest journalist Nick Fillmore

Posted February 3rd, 2017 on Niagara At Large

What a difference some 50 years has made in one of Canada’s most important and powerful industries!

Back in 1970, the Senate of Canada called an inquiry to investigate the exorbitant profits made by Canada’s handful of media barons.

Skinflint media mogul Roy Thomson had declared that owning a radio or television station was like having a license to print money. He added that owning a newspaper was even better, because a license was not required.

The Senators hummed and hawed, and made some recommendations that were mostly ignored by the powerful media owners, who continued to make big profits.

How times have changed.  Continue reading →

News from the Office of U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins

Posted February 2^nd, 2017 on Niagara At Large

The Peace Bridge crossing the upper Niagara River between Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario and Buffalo, New York. File photo by Doug Draper

(A Brief Foreword Note from NAL publisher Doug Draper – A number of parties on the Ontario side of the Niagara River and Peace Bridge, including the Niagara District Council of Women which has been very active on this issue, have continued to express opposition to plans to ship highly toxic shipments of radioactive waste through the Niagara region and Niagara/Buffalo border. On the U.S. side, Democratic Congressman Brian Higgins has been making a full environmental review of these shipments one of his priorities.)

Buffalo, New York – U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced (this February 1st, 2017) that the House of Representatives has approved H.R. 677 the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Intelligence and Information Sharing Act of 2017.  Continue reading →

–         On Wednesday, February 8^th at 7:30 p.m. in                          St. Catharines/Niagara

An Invitation to All from the Niagara District Council Of Women

Posted February 2nd, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Join the Council of Women for a PUBLIC MEETING on Transgender Inclusion – on what it means, on what the challenges are and what are the successes of the transgender community.

Where – in the Mills Room of the St. Catharines Centennial Library, 54 Church Street, in downtown, St. Catharines, Ontario.

When – Wednesday February 8th  7:30 p.m.

Speakers –

Susan Gapka has survived homelessness, drug abuse and poverty, and since 1999 has been an important political voice for the transgender community in Toronto.  In 2000, she graduated with honours from the Community Worker Program at George Brown College. A political science degree from York University would come in 2009.  Continue reading →

New 16 kilometer  Rapid Transit Line Would Connect the Waterfront with Hamilton Airport

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted February 2nd, 2017 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Note from NAL – It is interesting to see one of Niagara, Ontario’s neighbouring municipalities moving so far ahead on a public transit file it has already been way ahead of Niagara on. Interesting, indeed.)

Ontario is moving forward with planning for a proposed 16 km Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line that would connect the Hamilton waterfront to Hamilton International Airport, making it easier for people to travel across the city.

Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca was joined by Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger today to announce the proposed line, which would also connect to the Hamilton Street Railway, the future Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT) line, GO Transit buses, and the Hamilton GO Centre and West Harbour GO stations. Connections to key destinations such as Mohawk College, St. Joseph’s Healthcare, and the West Harbour area will also be explored during the planning phase, and details such as the number of stops will be determined through further study by Metrolinx and the City of Hamilton. Continue reading →

“University officials have spent several days consulting faculty and students affected by the new measures, and monitoring the plight of international students whose education plans have been paralyzed by political moves in Washington.”

A Message from Brock University

Posted February 2^nd, 2017 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from NAL publisher Doug Draper – Every once in a while I have my issues with the way things are going at my old alma mater – it was Brock University where I earned an Honurs B.A. before making the mistake of going on and getting a Master’s degree in the now dying pression of journalism – but this is a good and gutsy move Brock is making with a group of other universities and colleges across Canada to help foreign students caught in Trump’s dark madness.

Brock University has long expressed pride in hosting a divese population of students. – Photo by Denis Cahill

I salute the schools from coast to coast in our ‘great white north’ for doing this and for showing through this offer to help those who are targets of Trump’s hate and fear driven, discriminatory actions that Canada welcomes them.)

Now here is the Message from Brock –

Niagara, Ontario – Brock University has announced immediate steps to streamline its admissions process and waive certain fees for students from countries impacted by U.S. travel restrictions. Continue reading →

“This cynical decision is designed to let the Liberals keep power for longer. But Justin Trudeau is about to learn that when you break people’s faith, you will reap what you sow.”

A Message from Canada’s Green Party Leader Elizabeth May

Posted February 1st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Green Party leader Elizabeth May who has tried hard to work with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on climate change and other issues, is now feeling betrayed by him.

I feel more deeply shocked today by this government’s actions than any other time in my adult life.

Thousands upon thousands of Canadians put faith in this Prime Minister’s direct promise that 2015 would be the last election under first-past-the-post. He has broken that promise.

I never expected anything other than appalling decisions from Stephen Harper. But when you believe in someone and they let you down, that is much harder.

This cynical decision is designed to let the Liberals keep power for longer. Continue reading →

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted February 1^st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – A proposal to locate an incinerator somewhere in Niagara, Ontario for burning waste has finally been extinguished by municipal politicians following many months of opposition from citizens in the region.

Citizen watchdog Liz Benneian speaks last summer at public meeting in Thorold community of Port Robinson about incinerator proposal. File photo by Doug Draper

The plan by a private corporation to build a so-called ‘energy-from-waste incinerator somewhere in the Allanburg/Port Robinson area of Thorold was recently voted down by Thorold’s city council. Then this January 31^st, a majority of councillors on Niagara Region’s public works committee said no to it – believing it would likely never fly anyway with an Ontario government that, earlier this year, indicated no interest in such projects, reportedly because of a surplus supply of electricity is already available in the province.

But credit for killing a proposal that belongs somewhere back in the last century – if burning waste to produce energy was ever a good idea at all – must also go to concerned Niagara area citizens like Liz Benneian and others, including her ‘No Burn Niagara’ citizens coalition, who rallied other residents across the region, and who never failed to show up at municipal council meetings to make the case against incinerating waste. Continue reading →

“This year, as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, let us never forget the stories of Black Canadians’ courage in the face of intolerance.”

Posted February 1st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

The Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement this February 1st, 2017 to celebrate Black History Month:

Statue of Harriet Tubman was commissioned by the District School Board of Niagara from former Niagara residents and artists Frank Rekrut and Laura Thompson, who now live and own an art studio in Florence, Italy. It was unveiled a year ago this February at Harriet Tubman Public School in St. Catharines/Niagara. File photo by Doug Draper

“Throughout our history, Black Canadians have played a key role in building and shaping the diverse, compassionate, and prosperous country that we are all so proud to call home.

“Every February, Canadians celebrate Black History Month by acknowledging the remarkable achievements and contributions that Canadians of African and Caribbean descent have made to Canada.  

“I urge all Canadians to reflect on the bravery and courage of individuals like Viola Desmond, a prominent Black Canadian businesswoman who changed the course of Canadian history by defiantly refusing to leave a whites-only area of a movie theatre in 1946.

“In recognition of her impact on the civil rights and freedoms movement in Canada, the Government of Canada chose Viola Desmond as the face of Canada’s ten dollar bank note.

“This year, as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, let us never forget the stories of Black Canadians’ courage in the face of intolerance. Diversity is our greatest strength, and we must always continue to build a country that affords equality and opportunity for all. Continue reading →

And No Amount of Fear-Mongering, Trying to Pit One Group Against Another and Alternative Facts are Going to Stop Them

From Niagara, Ontario resident Gary Screaton Page, for Niagara At Large and our many online visitors.

At a recent rally in Buffalo, N.Y., protesting virtually everything Trump stands for. Photo by Doug Draper

Posted February 1^st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

So, Trump is going to “Make America Great Again” and unite the country by being the “President of all the people”?

 Not so!

A friend, film producer and director, Aaron Wolf – a partner in Howling Wolf Productions located in Los Angeles – had just arrived at the airport in L.A..

On entering the terminal, he encountered a sea of protesters, stretching from one end of the building to the other. Continue reading →

A Brief Note from Niagara At Large publisher Doug Draper – Several hundred Niagara area residents attended a candlelight vigil in St. Catharines, Ontario this Tuesday, January 31st evening for the victims of the Quebec shootings.

In a large lot, next to the Masjid-An-Noor mosque in the city’s downtown, they ended the vigil with a singing of ‘We Shall Overcome”. Many brought their children, candles in hand, to the vigil.

It was a beautiful show of solidarity in the face of a world that has gone a bit mad.

Now Here is a Message from Canada’s Green Party Leader Elizabeth May

Posted January 31st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Click on the following to watch Elizabeth May’s statement – http://www.greenparty.ca/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=153527&qid=55737303 .

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

“I encourage you to visit the renewed Library and I hope that the community enjoys and cherishes it for generations to come.”

A Column by Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn

Posted January 31st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Word got around quickly last week that the renewed Maple Acre Library opened on Tuesday (January 24th). When I went by around 3:30 PM, it was a hive of activity!

Pelham’s renewed Maple Acre Library. Photo courtesy of Town of Pelham

Some folks worked in the Quiet Room (situated in the 1919 original Library), while others used the computers in the Technology area. A senior signed up for a Library Card for the first time, and kids read and played in the new Children’s area. Continue reading →

 Meeting Set For Monday, February 6th, Followed by Vote on the Motion to Change Composition of Regional Council

News from the City of St. Catharines/Niagara

Posted January 31st, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – St. Catharines City Council will hold a special meeting Monday, Feb. 6 to discuss the double duty model of council representation.

St. Catharines City Hall

The council meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. inside Council Chambers, with double duty as the only item on the meeting agenda. Following speaking delegations about double duty, City Council will then vote on the motion to change the composition of Regional Council.

Residents looking to speak at the meeting can register with the Office of the City Clerk by calling 905.688.5601 ext. 1501 or emailing clerks@stcatharines.ca . Continue reading →

Posted January 31st on Niagara At Large

Niagara At Large is posting the following information prepared by the Islamic Society of St. Catharines, Niagara about a vigil for the victims of the Quebec shootings, scheduled for this Tuesday, January 31st, in downtown St. Catharines, Ontario at the corner of Geneva Street and Welland Avenue.

For more information from the Islamic Society of St. Catharines, Niagara, click on – http://www.isscniagara.org/ .

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

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 .

Jeff Burch, executive director of the Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre and chair of the Niagara Refugee Assistance Committee

A Call-Out to All of Us from Niagara’s Multicultural Leadership for “Understanding and Compassion in the Face of the Cruel and Unfair Actions of the U.S. Government and Those Who Hate.”

An Open Letter to the Citizens of Niagara from Jeff Burch, Executive Director of the Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre and Chair of the Niagara Refugee Assistance Committee

Posted January 30th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

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

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted January 30th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

A great photo of Barack Obama, published last year in Rolling Stone magazine, taken while he was still U.S. president and up in the Arctic, talking about the need to take urgent action on climate change

On the very last page of the latest (February 2017) issue of Rolling Stone magazine, there is a black and white photo of now former U.S. President Barack Obama with his back turned, with the following quote from him above that photo.

The quote – an excerpt from is parting message to the American people –  reads as follows; “Show up. Dive in. Stay at it. … I will be right there with you as a citizen, for all of my remaining days.”

It’s a heartfelt message from this first ever (and hopefully not last) Afro-American president and many surely took it to mean that one day – but not too soon, given the grace usually granted to a new president to chart his own way without digs from the last person who held the office – he would speak out, if and when he felt he had to on matters of serious concern. Continue reading →

A Call-Out from Former Canadian NDP leader Ed Broadbent

Posted January 30th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Ed Broadbent

The past two days have been chilling.

This  Sunday, January 29th, 2017,  the horrific effects of hate rocked the whole country with the terrorist attack on the mosque in Sainte-Foy.

Our hearts this morning are with the Muslim community in Quebec and across Canada. As the investigation into this horror continues, it is more important than ever for each and every one of us to stand up against hate.

Sunday’s (January 29th) attack came a day after Donald Trump’s disgusting and terrifying Muslim ban took effect in the United States. Continue reading →

Posted January 30th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement this January 29th  after hearing of the fatal shooting at the Centre culturel islamique de Québec located in the Ste-Foy neighbourhood of the city of Québec:

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

It was with tremendous shock, sadness and anger that I heard of this evening’s tragic and fatal shooting at the Centre culturel islamique de Québec located in the Ste-Foy neighbourhood of the city of Québec.

“We condemn this terrorist attack on Muslims in a centre of worship and refuge.

“On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of all those who have died, and we wish a speedy recovery to those who have been injured. Continue reading →

Canada’s Prime Minister Should Also Consider Following  Mexican President’s Lead & Cancelling Plans To Meet With Trump

A News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted January 29^th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

In the wake of America’s new president, Donald Trump, signing an executive order this past January 27^th, closing America’s borders to refugees and others from Syria and other Muslim-populated countries, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to Twitter, as Trump is want to do, to send out a very un-Trump-like message of his own.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau greets Syrian refugees arriving at Toronto airport last year.

“To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of our faith. Diversity is our strength,” stated Trudeau in a January 28^th tweet. “Welcome to Canada.”

I can’t help but think there is a little bit of father Pierre’s penchant in that tweet for letting the big man in the White House now we aren’t just going to role over every time he barks. But it might be a good idea if the son followed up the tweet with a statesman-like address in the Canadian people and the world that, in spite of the kind of racist bile spewing from the mouths of some, like federal Conservative leadership candidate Kellie Leitch, Canada is not going to follow Trump and his shock troops to the darkest reaches of human nature. Continue reading →

A Statement from Ontario Citizenship and Immigration Minister Laura Albanese

Posted January 29, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Earlier this Sunday,  January 29th,  I spoke to the federal Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, and reiterated Ontario’s open door stance with respect to receiving immigrants and refugees from all countries, irrespective of race, ethnicity or faith.

Ontario’s economic and social strength is built on our traditions of openness and
diversity. Since December 2015, Ontario has received approximately 20,000 refugees, including over 16,000 refugees fleeing the Syrian crisis and the remainder coming from other countries across the globe. Continue reading →

Supporting More Travel Options, Improving Local Transit for Commuters and Families

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted January 27th, 2017 on Niagara At LargeJ

Ontario is boosting support for nearly 100 cities and towns across the province, providing them with reliable, long-term funding to improve and expand their local transit systems and offer more travel options for commuters and families.

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne

Premier Kathleen Wynne and Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca were at York Region Transit’s Richmond Hill facility today to announce the new investment.

The province has heard directly from people who are frustrated by their daily commute and from municipalities that are struggling to meet their transit needs. In response to these concerns, starting in 2019, Ontario will be increasing funding for local transit through an enhancement to the existing gas tax program, doubling the municipal share from two cents per litre to four cents by 2021. There will be no increase in the tax that people in Ontario pay on gasoline as a result of the enhancement to the program. Continue reading →