The Lincoln Local

After 12 years as Mayor of Lincoln and a lifetime of connection to the community, Mayor Sandra Easton is preparing for a new chapter.

In this special episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Stephanie Hicks and Sara Wilde sit down with Mayor Easton for a heartfelt, candid and sometimes hilarious conversation about the experiences that shaped her life and leadership.

From growing up in Beamsville and discovering her passion for nursing at just 11 years old, to serving on Council and eventually becoming Mayor in 2014, Mayor Easton reflects on the people, places and moments that have defined her journey.

She shares memories of Lincoln's early days, the importance of investing in youth and public spaces, and the community partnerships that have helped shape the Town we know today. Along the way, we hear some unforgettable stories, including a young skateboarder's determination to create a skate park, an unexpected dinosaur at a Council meeting and the story behind a rose named in her honour.

As she looks toward retirement, Mayor Easton opens up about the decision to step away, what she'll miss most and the hobbies she's looking forward to rediscovering.

Join us for a conversation filled with laughter, a few tears and a celebration of community, connection and a remarkable journey in public service.

In this episode, we also share important community updates:

🗳️ 2026 Municipal and School Board Election: Online voting runs from October 7–21, 2026, with advance in-person voting on October 14, 17 and 21. Election Day is Monday, October 26, 2026. Find voting information at https://lincoln.ca/election2026.

📚 Canadian Library Month: October is Library Month! Learn more about the Lincoln Pelham Public Library's The Next Chapter fundraising campaign to expand the Vineland Branch, improve accessibility and create Lincoln's first public net-zero building at https://lpppl.ca.

👏 International Customer Service Week: From October 5–9, 2026, the Town celebrated the staff and customer service ambassadors who go the extra mile for our community. Residents can also nominate a deserving employee or team through the Above and Beyond Employee Recognition Program at https://lincoln.ca/contact-us.

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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

What makes Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers uniquely Lincoln? In this episode of The Lincoln Local, Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Anthony D’Aprile, General Manager of Dillon’s, to go behind the bottle and explore the people, process and local ingredients behind one of Lincoln’s best-known craft beverage businesses.

Since opening in 2012, Dillon’s has grown from its small-batch spirits into ready-to-drink cocktails, tastings, tours and hands-on experiences—all while staying connected to the farmers, growers and community around it.

Anthony takes us inside the art and science of distilling, talks about the importance of Niagara ingredients, shares how Dillon’s supported the community during the pandemic, and explains why experiences have become such an important part of the business.

Plus, we find out Anthony’s favourite Dillon’s products, cocktail preferences, and what’s coming up at the distillery—including Teenies & Weenies on September 20, 2026 and Dillon’s Craft Your Own Gin experiences.

🍸 In this episode:
• The art and science of distilling
• Local ingredients and the Niagara connection
• The evolution of Dillon’s
• The importance of experiences and community
• What’s next at Dillon’s
• Anthony’s quick-fire cocktail choices

Learn more: Dillons.ca
Follow: @DillonsDistills

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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

Back to school means more buses, bikes, pedestrians, parents and vehicles sharing the road — and that makes it a perfect time for a conversation about road safety.

In this episode of The Lincoln Local, Sara and Stephanie are joined by Scott Fraser, Associate Director of Transportation Planning with Niagara Region, and Diane Maceira, Manager of Operational Engineering with the Town of Lincoln, to talk about what happens behind the scenes to make our roads safer.

We talk about:

• What’s changing in Lincoln’s school zones and why consistency matters
• How the Town of Lincoln and Niagara Region work together on road safety
• Why speeding and traffic calming are such common resident concerns
• The three pillars of road safety: engineering, education and enforcement
• What drivers can do to make school zones safer
• Distracted driving — and why looking at your phone for just one second can be dangerous
• How pedestrian crossovers work and what drivers and pedestrians need to know
• Motorcycle safety and the importance of sharing the road
• How truck enforcement blitzes help keep commercial vehicles safe and compliant
• Niagara Region’s road safety strategic plan
• The future of transportation planning, transit and active transportation
• The latest update on the Niagara Escarpment crossing environmental assessment
• And, of course, a little road-trip-themed lightning round!

As Scott puts it, slowing down in a school zone from 60 km/h to 40 km/h only adds a couple of seconds to your trip — but those seconds can make a huge difference.

The takeaway? Slow down, stay alert, put the phone away, give yourself a little extra time, and remember that the person you're sharing the road with is someone who wants to get home safely too.

Learn More & Get Involved

🚗 Niagara Region Transportation Planning
Learn more about regional transportation planning, road safety initiatives and upcoming engagement opportunities:
https://niagararegion.ca/

🛣️ Town of Lincoln
Find information about municipal roads, transportation and services:
https://www.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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

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: [email protected]

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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

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
• @theredbarnfarmmarket

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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric

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 started
• Why Niagara Benchlands feels different from other wine regions
• The rise of experience-driven wine tourism
• Funny and memorable tour moments
• Their favourite local wine experiences
• What it’s really like working together as spouses and business partners
• Hidden 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 Benchlands
• The Watering Can
• Flat Rock Cellars
• Back 10 Cellars
• Malivoire Wine Company
• Pearl Morissette
• Cloudsley Cellars
• Theatre Bacchus
• Mayor Sandra Easton’s Charity Golf Tournament

Theatre 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 Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric