What's Up, Welland?

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-b...

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 C...

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 a...

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...

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 tre...

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...

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 coord...

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-scen...

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...

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...

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 deta...

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,...

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 mea...

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...

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 episo...

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 m...

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 crea...

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 Tu...

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 Centr...

This is an episode that shines a light on the Niagara Sexual Assault Centre and the essential work being done with survivors of sexual violence. From emergency response and immediate crisis support to counseling and support groups, the centre offers a variety of services tailored to meet the unique needs of survivors. Tricia Cosgrove, community relations manager, walks us through these services an...

Welcome to a heartwarming chat about a seasonal community tradition – the Welland Food Drive. Monique Finley and Jennifer Sinclair are sharing insights about this long-standing event and its impact on Wellland’s food security efforts. The first weekend of November is when this food drive unites the community to support The Hope Centre, Open Arms Mission, and Salvation Army in the essential service...

When a community agency is focused on empowering individuals to live independently and with dignity, it calls for a closer look at who they are and what they do. Community Support Services of Niagara (CSSN) provides essential programs that meet the needs of seniors, adults with disabilities, and those seeking support to stay active in their homes and communities. Christine Bissonnette, community e...

This week marks the conclusion of the 2025 budget process conversation and we’re wrapping up with a look at the asset management and nine-year capital plans. Anka Vuksan Scott is continuing to offer her budget insights, and joining her in sharing the information is Matt Main, manager of infrastructure and assets. These focused podcast chats may be at an end, but Welland’s municipal budget process...

As the City of Welland begins the process to engage the community on the composition of Council, we’re catching up with Tara Stephens, director of legislative services/city clerk, to understand what this means. From exploring how changes could enhance efficiency to discussing streamlined governance, we’ve got a great guest who’ll let us know what’s in store and how and why feedback from community...