The Lincoln Local

TownofLincoln

The Lincoln Local is the official podcast of the Town of Lincoln, Ontario, sharing the stories, decisions, and people shaping our growing community in Niagara Region. Released twice a month, each episode breaks down local government decisions, explores what’s happening at Town Hall, and highlights Lincoln’s  businesses . We talk growth, culture, economic development, and the everyday issues that matter to residents—clearly, accessibly, and without the jargon. Whether you live in Lincoln, work in Niagara, or are curious about how local communities grow and evolve, The Lincoln Local offers an inside look at the conversations shaping our town. It’s the talk of the town. Hosted by Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks. Made possible with support from Niagara Region Economic Development, with set design by Second Chance Decor, The Watering Can, and Verhoof Electric.

  1. 5d ago

    Building Lincoln’s Business Community: The Chamber, the BIA and the Town

    How do the Town of Lincoln, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA each support local businesses—and what becomes possible when they work together? In this episode of The Lincoln Local, co-hosts Stephanie Hicks and Sara Wilde welcome Emilia Amaro, Executive Director of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and Jennifer Blackledge, Executive Director of the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA. They break down the distinct roles of the Chamber and BIA, how their members shape their priorities, and how both organizations turn local business needs into practical advocacy, resources, connections, programming, events, beautification, marketing and activations. The conversation explores meaningful networking, tariff-response collaboration, inclusive community-building and the many ways residents can support local businesses—even when they are not making a purchase. Emilia and Jennifer also share what is coming up on their organizations’ calendars, including the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting and Outstanding Business Achievement Awards, as well as Roll in Rotary, Bike the Benchlands and Fling off King. Stay for a lively quick-fire round covering leadership superpowers, meetings, marketing budgets and why Lincoln feels like both community and home. Learn More Lincoln Chamber of Commerce lincolnchamber.ca @lincoln.chamber Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA downtownbenchbeamsville.com @downtownbenchbeamsville Send us a message Have a topic you want us to cover? Know a local business or organization we should feature? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast Thanks & Credits With support from: Niagara Region Economic DevelopmentThe Watering CanSecond Chance DecorVerhoef Electric

  2. Aug 4

    Your Vote, Your Voice: A Practical Guide to Lincoln's 2026 Municipal Election

    Municipal elections have a direct impact on the roads you drive, the parks you enjoy, the services you rely on, and the future of our community. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Town Clerk Julie Kirkelos and Deputy Clerk Linsey Comley to break down everything residents need to know about the 2026 Town of Lincoln Municipal Election. Whether you're planning to vote, interested in working the election, or considering running for office, this episode covers key dates, voting options, candidate information, and how you can play a role in shaping Lincoln's future. In this episode:  Why municipal elections matter  How and where to vote  Online and advance voting options  Working the election as a paid election official  What it takes to run for Mayor, Councillor or School Board Trustee  Important deadlines you don't want to miss Key Election Dates 📍 August 12 – Last day to register or update your information through Register to Vote Ontario 📍 August 21 (2:00 p.m.) – Candidate nomination deadline 📍 August 24 – Official list of certified candidates released 📍 Late September – Voter Information Letters mailed 📍 October 7–21 – Secure online voting available 📍 October 14, 17 & 21 – Advance in-person voting at Town Hall (10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.) 📍 October 26 – Election Day (10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.) Looking for more information? 🗳️ Town of Lincoln Municipal Election information: lincoln.ca/Election2026 👥 Interested in becoming an Election Worker?  Applications are open until August 30. 📧 Questions?  Email: elections@lincoln.ca Send us a message Have a topic you want us to cover? Know a local business or organization we should feature? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast Thanks & Credits With support from: Niagara Region Economic DevelopmentThe Watering CanSecond Chance DecorVerhoef Electric

  3. Jul 14

    From Field to Froyo: Lincoln's Sweetest Local Story

    Fresh strawberries are only the beginning. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Jeff Tigchelaar of Tigchelaar Berry Farms and Julia Boekestyn of The Red Barn Farm Market & Bakery to explore the journey from field to farm market—and eventually to pies, pastries and frozen yogurt. Jeff shares how generations of farming experience, innovative growing methods and Lincoln's unique microclimate produce some of Ontario's sweetest strawberries. Julia gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at running one of Lincoln's favourite farm markets, creating seasonal baked goods and turning local harvests into unforgettable experiences. From strawberry fields and beneficial insects to fresh pies, froyo and community connections, this conversation celebrates the people, passion and partnerships that make Lincoln's agricultural community thrive. Whether you're planning a summer road trip, looking for fresh local produce or simply love hearing the stories behind the food on your table, this episode is packed with local flavour. Learn More 🍓 Tigchelaar Berry Farms https://tigchelaarberries.com 🥧 Red Barn Farm Market & Bakery https://www.theredbarnfarmmarket.com/ 📸 Follow them on Instagram @tigchelaarberryfarm@theredbarnfarmmarketSend us a message Have a topic you want us to cover? Know a local business or organization we should feature? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast Thanks & Credits With support from: Niagara Region Economic DevelopmentThe Watering CanSecond Chance DecorVerhoef Electric

  4. Jul 7

    Time, Talent & Treasure: How Giving Changes Communities

    What does philanthropy really mean—and is it only for the wealthy? In this episode of The Lincoln Local, we sit down with Bryan Rose, Executive Director of the Niagara Community Foundation, to explore how generosity is transforming communities across Niagara. From surpassing $100 million in assets to supporting more than 250 local charities each year, Bryan shares how the Foundation helps fund everything from food banks and affordable housing to libraries, museums, parks, youth programs and community spaces—including projects right here in Lincoln. We also dive into the myths surrounding philanthropy, why anyone can make a difference, and Bryan's simple but powerful philosophy of the Three T's: Time, Talent and Treasure. Whether you're looking to volunteer, give back, or simply learn more about the incredible organizations strengthening our communities, this episode is full of inspiring stories and practical ways to get involved. Learn more about Niagara Community Foundation Website: https://niagaracommunityfoundation.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NiagaraCF Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niagaracommunityfoundation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/niagara-community-foundation/ 💙 Remember: Everyone can make a difference through their Time, Talent or Treasure. No act of generosity is too small. Send us a message Have a topic you want us to cover? Know a local business or organization we should feature? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast Thanks & Credits With support from: Niagara Region Economic DevelopmentThe Watering CanSecond Chance DecorVerhoef Electric

  5. Jun 9

    From Fashion to Food: Building Two Beloved Lincoln Businesses

    This episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Jacquelene Del Col, owner of Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective and Zooma Caters, to celebrate 30 years of entrepreneurship, creativity, and community in Lincoln. From her beginnings as a photographer for the Toronto Sun to designing clothing sold across Canada, Jacquelene shares the unexpected journey that led to opening one of Jordan Village's most beloved destinations. The conversation explores:  • The story behind Tintern Road and Jack Style Collective  • How a fashion business inspired a culinary one  • Building and evolving businesses over three decades  • Why shopping local matters more than ever  • Entrepreneurship, resilience, and adapting through change  • The role of style in confidence and self-expression  • The magic of Jordan Village and the Niagara Benchlands Along the way, Jacquelene shares lessons learned from 30 years in business, stories from the pandemic, insights into customer service, and why she has no plans to retire anytime soon. Whether you're passionate about fashion, food, entrepreneurship, or simply love supporting local businesses, this episode is packed with inspiration and community pride. Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective 📍 3845 Main Street, Jordan Village, Ontario 🌐 Website: tinternroad.ca 📸 Instagram: @tinternroadandjack 📘 Facebook: Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective Zooma Caters 🌐 Website: zoomacaters.ca 📸 Instagram: @zoomacaters 📘 Facebook: Zooma Caters  Mentioned in this Episode Jordan Village Located in the heart of the Niagara Benchlands, Jordan Village offers boutique shopping, dining, wineries, craft beverages, heritage attractions, and scenic experiences. Niagara Benchlands Explore vineyards, orchards, culinary experiences, cycling routes, hiking trails, heritage sites, and charming villages throughout Lincoln. 🌐 https://www.niagarabenchlands.ca Upcoming Dates & Celebrations 🎉 Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective celebrates 30 years in 2026 👗 50th Fashion Show Featuring special guests and community models. (Sold out at the time of recording.) 🛍️ New arrivals arrive weekly at Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective. 🍽️ Zooma Caters offers private dining experiences and seasonal barn dinners throughout the year. Send us a message Have a topic you want us to cover? Know a local business or organization we should feature? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast Thanks & Credits With support from: Niagara Region Economic DevelopmentThe Watering CanSecond Chance DecorVerhoef Electric

  6. Jun 2

    Find Your Way to Play: Summer Activities and Community Life in Lincoln

    Summer is here, and Lincoln is packed with opportunities to get outside, stay active, and connect with your community. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks chat with Shannon McKay, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Community Services, about everything happening across Lincoln this summer. From parks, recreation programs, summer camps, splash pads, and swimming lessons to Seniors Month activities and Canada Day celebrations, Shannon shares how these programs help create healthy, connected communities. You'll also hear why parks and recreation are about much more than fun, plus get the latest summer updates during Talk of the Town Tea and a lightning round featuring summer favourites, savoury s'mores, and an unexpectedly passionate conversation about oysters. Episode Highlights  Seniors Month and the Senior Showcase  Lincoln Seniors Club programs and memberships  Recreation and Parks Month  Summer camps and swimming lessons  Splash pads and pool openings  Canada Day at Charles Daley Park  How parks and recreation support community wellness  Talk of the Town Tea  Lightning Round: Summer Edition Important Dates Senior Showcase 📅 June 3 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 📍 Fleming Centre & Lincoln Community Centre Senior Flag Raising 📅 June 8 | 10:30 a.m. 📍 Town Hall AFG Pool Opens 📅 June 6 📍 4361 Central Ave., Beamsville Jordan Lions Pool Opens 📅 Late June 📍 793 Fourth Ave., Jordan Canada Day Celebration 📅 July 1 | 1:30–10 p.m. 📍 Charles Daley Park, Jordan Send us a message Have a topic you want us to cover? Know a local business or organization we should feature? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast Thanks & Credits With support from: Niagara Region Economic DevelopmentThe Watering CanSecond Chance DecorVerhoef Electric

  7. May 12

    Private Wine Tours With Local Insiders

    What happens when two wine-loving friends turn their passion for Niagara Benchlands into a business? 🍷 In this episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Jennifer Pratt and Graham Cocking — the husband-and-wife duo behind Crush on Niagara Wine Tours. From hidden gem wineries and private curated tours to the realities of building a tourism business together as a married couple, this episode dives into what makes Niagara Benchlands such a unique destination. Jennifer and Graham share stories about: How Crush on Niagara Wine Tours startedWhy Niagara Benchlands feels different from other wine regionsThe rise of experience-driven wine tourismFunny and memorable tour momentsTheir favourite local wine experiencesWhat it’s really like working together as spouses and business partnersHidden gems, vineyard views, sparkling wine, patio season, and sweater weather 🍂Whether you’re planning your next girls’ getaway, celebrating something special, or simply looking to rediscover your own backyard, this episode is packed with local love, tourism insight, and plenty of laughs. 🌐 Website: https://crushtours.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crushtours/ Mentioned in this Episode Niagara BenchlandsThe Watering CanFlat Rock CellarsBack 10 CellarsMalivoire Wine CompanyPearl MorissetteCloudsley CellarsTheatre BacchusMayor Sandra Easton’s Charity Golf TournamentTheatre Bacchus – The Invisible Man Experience Theatre Bacchus’ spring production of The Invisible Man at the Lincoln Community Hub. 🎭 Tickets Mayor Easton’s Charity Golf Tournament Hosted at Twenty Valley Golf & Country Club. 📅 Registration & Sponsorship Info Send us a message Have a topic you want us to cover? Know a local business or organization we should feature? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast Thanks & Credits With support from: Niagara Region Economic DevelopmentThe Watering CanSecond Chance DecorVerhoef Electric

  8. May 5

    What If Preserving History Means Preserving Play

    When was the last time you actually went to a museum… not on a school trip, not because you had to—but because you wanted to? With May being Museum Month across Ontario, we’re taking you inside one of Lincoln’s most meaningful (and surprisingly fun) spaces—the Lincoln Museum and Cultural Centre. And trust us… it’s not what you think. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, we sit down with: • Olivia Rozema, Senior Curator of Museum Operations • Courtney Corbeil, Curator of Education, Visitor Engagement & Partnerships We’re talking about:  The wild, community-built history of the museum (including a house that was literally floated across water 😳)  Why the 1859 schoolhouse is one of the most loved—and most at-risk—spaces  How this site blends history, play, nature, and community into a full-day experience  And why preserving these spaces isn’t just about the past… it’s about future generations Plus, we spill the Talk of the Town Tea ☕ with upcoming events you won’t want to miss 👇 📅 What’s Happening at the Museum May 1–12, 2026 Red Dress Installation for National Awareness Day for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls & Two-Spirit Peoples Now – September 2026 Wine in Niagara Exhibit (in partnership with Brock University) May 15, 2026 | 6:30 PM Deep Roots Social – curated tasting experience across the museum grounds Monthly (First Saturdays) STEAM Saturdays – hands-on fun for kids June 4, 2026 Unmasking Brain Injury (with Ontario Brain Injury Association) Last Thursdays (June–August 2026) Music at the Museum – free (by donation) summer evenings September 2026 60th Annual Harvest Pioneer Day – family-friendly, historic demos, vendors, and yes… a cannon 👀 ❤️ Want to Support the Schoolhouse? If preserving spaces like the schoolhouse matters to you, you can learn more or donate here:  👉 https://lincolnmuseum.ca/donate Send us a message Have a topic you want us to cover? Know a local business or organization we should feature? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast Thanks & Credits With support from: Niagara Region Economic DevelopmentThe Watering CanSecond Chance DecorVerhoef Electric

About

The Lincoln Local is the official podcast of the Town of Lincoln, Ontario, sharing the stories, decisions, and people shaping our growing community in Niagara Region. Released twice a month, each episode breaks down local government decisions, explores what’s happening at Town Hall, and highlights Lincoln’s  businesses . We talk growth, culture, economic development, and the everyday issues that matter to residents—clearly, accessibly, and without the jargon. Whether you live in Lincoln, work in Niagara, or are curious about how local communities grow and evolve, The Lincoln Local offers an inside look at the conversations shaping our town. It’s the talk of the town. Hosted by Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks. Made possible with support from Niagara Region Economic Development, with set design by Second Chance Decor, The Watering Can, and Verhoof Electric.