Reflecting on 2020 reminds us of thoughts and hopes considered last year at this same time, prior to COVID-19 lockdowns and public health emergencies. Last year, issues reflected upon were housing affordability, mental health care, and sustainability of local government. Well, clearly COVID-19 has exposed our lack of policy priority and funding towards these … [Read more...] about Considering yesterday, today, and tomorrow
Opinion
Lost in nature; it can be fun, or terrifying
I’ve always had a good sense of direction. I would like to believe my friends, family, and hiking clients would fully trust me on such a statement. I’ve travelled Niagara’s meek but empowering forests, plus the regional roads, and between hiking, hockey, and family across the peninsula, I’ve got an unshakeable sense for where places lie in proportion to one another. … [Read more...] about Lost in nature; it can be fun, or terrifying
Learning about wine, and an industry pioneer
I have been writing for The Local newspaper a little over a year now. I mostly cover events and write about the people of Niagara-on-the-Lake. I have the pleasure of attending a lot of the fun stuff that happens in town; whether it be historical, cultural, or even sometimes paranormal, although at this time, in the middle of a pandemic, there isn’t as much to cover. I have, … [Read more...] about Learning about wine, and an industry pioneer
Life in high school, university during pandemic
Bethany Poltl, University of Waterloo: I started my first year of university with excitement and apprehension. I am generally a very positive, “let’s do this” kind of person, as readers of The Local would know from my previous articles. And although I have continued to make the best of the situation as it is, I can tell you that every friend I have spoken with, university … [Read more...] about Life in high school, university during pandemic
Region, mayors agree to join Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities
On Friday, Sept. 18, I was honoured to be a speaker at the signing ceremony where the Region and all 12 municipalities joined the Canadian Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities. Dr. Liette Vasseur applauded the move. “As president of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, I am thrilled that the Niagara Region has joined this network, which includes cities, regional governments, … [Read more...] about Region, mayors agree to join Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities