Imagine if three simple words could help first responders find you faster in an emergency. That’s exactly what this episode is all about — how the what3words app is making that possible. Acting Fire Chief Matt Richardson and Michael Atkins, fire prevention officer, from Welland Fire and Emergency Services (WFES) are back to explain how this innovative, user-friendly tool divides the world into 3-by-3 metre squares and assigns each with a unique three-word address. This is a game-changer when ...
When members of the City’s Corporate Leadership Team attend professional conferences, they’re building connections, gaining new ideas, and showcasing the innovation happening right here in Welland. In this episode, Tara Stephens, director of legislative services and city clerk, and Marc MacDonald, chief communications & engagement officer, reflect on their recent experiences at the AMCTO and CPRS Elevate conferences. Tara shares takeaways from her presentation on strengthening municipal p...
Summer is here, and with it comes backyard barbecues, open air fires, time on the water—and a few seasonal safety reminders. Joining us today are Matt Richardson, Deputy Fire Chief, and Michael Atkins, Fire Prevention Officer with Welland Fire and Emergency Services. They’re here to share simple, practical tips to help keep your summer safe. You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/
We’re dishing out the details on one of the city’s tastiest seasonal activities: the Welland Supper Market. Join Tori Royer as she walks us through what makes the Supper Market such a staple of summer—think delicious food, live entertainment, and a lively atmosphere. You’ll hear what to expect this year, plus where to find updates on vendors, entertainers, and more. Hint, it’s here: www.welland.ca/Events/eventsinfo/suppermarket.asp Keep listing as Fraser Mowat shares a look at the bigge...
What happens when City staff come together not just to serve the community but to support it in meaningful, hands-on ways? You get the Community Support Team. In this episode, Janet Ferland, Adam Beres, and James Cronshaw are sharing how this staff-led group has grown from supporting a single cause to championing dozens of local initiatives. From food drives and fundraising barbecues to mitten trees and period product campaigns, this team is a behind-the-scenes force for good in Welland. We’r...
What happens when you mix sunshine, sneakers, and a whole lot of self-esteem? You get Welland Girls Sports Day—a confidence-boosting celebration of movement, mentorship, and trying something new. With this episode, we’re taking to the courts and fields at Empire Sportsplex to hear directly from the girls getting in the game, a proud parent cheering from the sidelines, volunteer coaches guiding the fun, and representatives from Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities and the City of Welland. Togethe...
Get ready for a celebration of confidence, community, and girl power! Welland Girls Sports Day is almost here, and we’re diving into what makes this event such an exciting and meaningful experience for young athletes in our city. Joining us are two champions of youth engagement—Michele O’Keefe, senior director of athletics and student engagement at Niagara College, and Tori Royer, recreation coordinator with the City of Welland. They share how this high-energy day came to life, what’s in stor...
Get ready to mark your calendars and sway to the beat—Concerts on the Canal is back, and this year’s series promises unforgettable nights of live music, local talent, and canal-side vibes. In this episode, Aaron Berger, recreation coordinator, is here to talk all things Concerts on the Canal. From how this award-winning series came together to what’s new in 2025, Aaron shares the behind-the-scenes stories of curating a season that will bring people together at one of Welland’s most scenic ven...
What do freedom seekers, hidden routes, and local history have in common? They all converge in a powerful new exhibit at the Welland Museum that explores the legacy of the Underground Railroad. We sit down with Lisa Mooney, executive director, and Emily Hodgson, curator at the museum, to uncover the role the Underground Railroad played in Canadian history—and how Welland fits into that story. From artifacts and documents to personal stories of courage, Lisa and Emily share how the museum is p...
After a little more than a year of settling in, learning the ropes, and making an impact, Jessica Ruddell, director of community services, returns to reflect on her experiences since joining Team Welland. From standout accomplishments across the Community Services department to identifying where change can make a difference—and embracing opportunities to be efficient and innovative—Jessica shares what she’s proud of, what she and her team have learned, and what they’re excited to tackle next....
Get ready to dig into all things green with this Earth Day episode. Tori Royer and Justin Beaulieu are here to chat about the exciting events and community initiatives happening in Welland in honour of Earth Day. From the City’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and growing our urban forest to the family-friendly Earth Day Extravaganza, free tree giveaway, and community clean up, there are details galore about Welland’s environmental efforts. You’ll find everything you need to know about E...
Welland’s theatre scene is about to sizzle, and we’re bringing you the scoop on what Canalside Players is serving up. In a community that proudly supports arts and culture, this local theatre troupe is staging Five Alarm, a comedy with big laughs and generous doses of spice and heart. Tori Royer, one of the City’s recreation coordinators, is joined by the show’s director, Jessica Sweeny. Together, they’re pulling back the curtain on this delightful, must-see production and how Canalside Playe...
Parking in Welland just got easier, and we’re bringing you the scoop on what you need to know. The City recently introduced a new digital parking permit system, making it more convenient than ever to apply for and manage permits online. We’re speaking with James Cronshaw, supervisor of parking & bylaw enforcement, to break down the essential details about how this system works and what it means for residents (and even visitors). This is a glimpse into how Welland is embracing techno...
We’re still in the grips of winter, but it’s never too early to start planning for an active spring and summer in Welland. From fitness and sports to arts and adventure, this is a city that offers a range of programs for all ages, abilities, and interests. Listen along as Laura Chatterton and Nicole Pilote share a preview of what’s ahead and the key dates to mark on your calendar. Heads up: March 5 is your first chance to see the spring/summer slate of programs. You’ll find everything a...
Welcome back to What’s Up, Welland? We’re kicking off Season 4 as we do every season: with none other than Mayor Frank Campion. Join us as we sit down with Mayor Campion to discuss what’s ahead for Welland, and get the inside scoop on the projects, plans, and progress shaping our community. It’s a brand-new season, and there’s lots to talk about – so let’s get started. You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/
Another season of What’s Up, Welland? winds down, and it’s with a heap of thanks to our guests—from staff to the various groups in Welland and beyond—for the stories we got to share. Of course, we’ll be back for Season 4. But we’re looking to change things up, and we want your ideas and suggestions to help shape our plans. Is there something different you’d like to see and hear the next time our mics are plugged in? Let us know and let’s see what comes together. Leave comments for us at ww...
For 50 years, The Hope Centre has been a cornerstone of compassion and care in Welland. Here to highlight the organization’s vital services are Jon Braithwaite, CEO, and Jennifer Sinclair, community engagement coordinator. Providing programs that address food security, housing support, and skill-building, the centre also functions as a community hub where partnerships with other organizations create a safety net of services for those in need. But our conversation doesn’t end there. As The H...
For two centuries, the Welland Public Library has been so much more than a place to borrow books – it has served as a cornerstone of community connection. In this milestone anniversary episode, we touch on the library’s rich history, highlight its role as a hub for learning and exploration, and celebrate its evolution as a welcoming space for everyone. Join Annie Ferguson, Niny Plaza, and Kerri Turner for a chat about the library continuing to satisfy Welland’s thirst for knowledge and provi...
On the heels of the first Council budget meeting and a report on Welland’s community engagement process, there’s no better time for Marc and Paul to recap what was presented and discussed, and to highlight what’s still to come. You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/
When it comes to protecting and supporting Niagara’s young people, the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre is at the heart of the community. Brian Bratt, executive director, is here to explain how this organization provides a safe, welcoming space for children and youth who have experienced trauma. With a multi-disciplinary approach to offering supportive services and programs, the Advocacy Centre ensures each child feels valued, protected, and heard. You can catch all past episodes and leav...