Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping event that car enthusiasts won’t want to miss—Storm the Falls Volume 5! On August 17th, 2024, the Niagara Falls Convention Centre will host the largest indoor car show in the Niagara Region. Located at 6815 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls, ON, this event promises to be an electrifying showcase of automotive brilliance, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Niagara Falls, which welcomed around 14 million visitors last year.

A Car Lover’s Paradise Storm the Falls brings together a vibrant collection of vehicles, from timeless classics to sleek tuners, scorching hot rods, and lightning-fast race cars. Whether you’re a seasoned car aficionado or just love the thrill of seeing top-notch vehicles up close, this event has something for everyone. It’s not just a car show—it’s an experience, offering an unforgettable day for attendees and participants alike.

Event Details

• Date: August 17th, 2024
• Location: Niagara Falls Convention Centre, 6815 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls, ON
• Ticket Prices:
  • Adults: $20+HST (Pre-Sale) | $25+HST (Day of Event)
  • Youth (Aged 4-12): $15+HST
  • Youth (Under 3): Free

Tickets are available for purchase at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre box office on the day of the event. For those who want to secure their spot early, pre-sale tickets are now available. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness some of the finest automobiles on display.

Why You Should Attend Storm the Falls is more than just a car show—it's a celebration of automotive culture. It’s the perfect event for car lovers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a unique and exciting day out in Niagara Falls. Plus, with its location in the heart of Niagara Falls, you can easily explore the area’s other attractions after the show.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official Storm the Falls website. Whether you're attending to marvel at the cars, meet like-minded enthusiasts, or simply enjoy a day of automotive excitement, Storm the Falls Volume 5 is the place to be this August.

The recent tornado that swept through the Niagara region yesterday took many of us by surprise. While tornados are not common in our area, this unexpected event serves as a crucial reminder: it’s better to be safe than sorry. Here’s how you can prepare for such weather events in the future, ensuring the safety and well-being of you and your loved ones.

1. Stay Informed

• Weather Alerts: Sign up for local weather alerts and notifications through Niagara Region Alerts. You can also use apps like WeatherCAN or The Weather Network for real-time updates.
• Emergency Broadcasts: Tune into local radio stations like 610 CKTB and television stations for the latest news and updates during severe weather conditions.

2. Create an Emergency Plan

• Family Communication: Develop a communication plan with your family. Ensure everyone knows how to contact each other and where to meet if separated.
• Designate Safe Areas: Identify safe areas in your home where you can take shelter during a tornado, such as a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor without windows.

3. Prepare an Emergency Kit

• Essentials: Assemble a kit with essential items such as water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and necessary medications.
• Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents (ID, insurance policies, bank records) in a waterproof container.
• More information can be found here: Canadian Red Cross Emergency Preparedness and Recovery

4. Secure Your Property

• Trim Trees: Regularly trim trees and branches to prevent them from causing damage during high winds.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and anything else that could become a projectile during a tornado.
• Reinforce Windows and Doors: Consider installing storm shutters and reinforcing garage doors to withstand strong winds.

5. Know Your Community Resources

• Local Shelters: Identify local shelters and emergency services in your area. The Niagara Region Emergency Management website provides information on local emergency shelters.
• Community Plans: Get involved in your community’s emergency planning and stay informed about local disaster response strategies.

6. Practice Drills

• Regular Drills: Conduct regular tornado drills with your family so that everyone knows what to do and where to go in case of an emergency.

7. Insurance Review

• Coverage Check: Review your home insurance policy to ensure it covers tornado and wind damage. Consider additional coverage if necessary.

While we hope that tornados remain a rarity in the Niagara region, being prepared is the best defense against any unexpected weather event. By taking these steps, you can protect your home, your loved ones, and yourself.

Every summer, the charming town of Port Colborne transforms into a vibrant hub of activity and celebration, all thanks to the annual Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival. This beloved event, taking place this weekend, offers a perfect blend of history, entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Canal Days is an experience not to be missed.

A Celebration of Maritime Heritage

The Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival is a tribute to the rich maritime history of Port Colborne. Located along the historic Welland Canal, the town has a deep connection to the waterways that have shaped its development. The festival celebrates this heritage with a variety of activities that bring the past to life.

Exciting Events and Activities

From boat tours to live music, Canal Days offers something for everyone. Here are some highlights you can look forward to:

1. Boat Tours: Get up close and personal with majestic tall ships, explore the intricacies of these historic vessels, and enjoy scenic boat tours along the Welland Canal. It's a fantastic way to appreciate the town’s maritime roots.

2. Live Music: The festival features a stellar lineup of live music performances that cater to diverse tastes. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, or folk, there’s a concert for you to enjoy. Grab your friends, find a spot, and soak in the sounds of summer.

3. Heritage Displays: Learn about the history of Port Colborne and its maritime significance through engaging heritage displays and exhibits. These showcases offer a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past and its evolution over the years.

4. Family Fun: Canal Days is a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. From carnival rides to face painting and interactive workshops, there’s no shortage of fun for the whole family.

5. Food and Craft Vendors: Stroll through the festival grounds and discover a variety of food stalls offering delicious local cuisine, as well as craft vendors selling unique handmade goods. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy some tasty treats.

View the schedule here: Canal Days Festival Schedule

Join the Celebration

The Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community and tradition. It’s a time when locals and visitors come together to honour the past, enjoy the present, and look forward to the future. Whether you’re drawn by the historic ships, the lively music, or the festive atmosphere, Canal Days promises an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss out on this incredible event. Mark your calendar, gather your loved ones, and head to Port Colborne this weekend for the Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival. For more information and a detailed schedule of events, visit the official Canal Days website.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

In Niagara, the real estate market is experiencing significant transformations due to fluctuations in interest rates. These changes present both opportunities and challenges for investors and homebuyers alike. A thorough understanding of these market dynamics is essential for effectively navigating the local real estate landscape. This article delves into the current state of the Niagara housing market, focusing on how property values are influenced and what these shifts entail for all stakeholders.

Property Values and Market Dynamics Short-term rentals have emerged as a highly lucrative investment option, often generating greater returns than traditional rental properties. This attractiveness, however, has a downside—it tends to drive up home prices, complicating affordability for local residents and first-time homebuyers. As property values climb, the dream of homeownership becomes increasingly out of reach for many within the community.

Overview of Local Regulations Each municipality within Niagara is adopting unique strategies to manage and integrate short-term rentals within their jurisdictions:

• Port Colborne is developing regulations to ensure that short-term rentals are well-integrated into the community, focusing on licensing and designated zones.
• Niagara Falls is taking measures against illegal rentals with a new online enforcement tool to ensure compliance with local laws.
• St. Catharines has mandated licenses for all short-term rentals to uphold safety and community standards.
• Wainfleet and Thorold have implemented comprehensive licensing systems following extensive community consultations, aiming to maintain neighbourhood integrity.
• Welland scrutinizes unlicensed rentals to enforce regulatory adherence and ensure market fairness.
• Fort Erie, particularly in Crystal Beach, is limiting the number of homes eligible for short-term rental licenses following significant community feedback.

Community Impact The proliferation of short-term rentals has led to a decreased availability of long-term rental housing, which in turn drives up rents and exacerbates housing shortages. Moreover, the transient nature of short-term tenancies can disrupt community cohesion and alter the character of neighbourhoods.

Navigating Market Changes with Expert Guidance Dealing with the complexities of an evolving real estate market requires professional insight and strategic planning. As your dedicated realtor, I am committed to providing the most current market analyses and advice to assist you in making informed decisions regarding property investments, sales, or community concerns.

Conclusion The influence of short-term rentals extends beyond simple economics; it significantly affects the social fabric and living conditions within our communities. It is imperative for all Niagara residents to stay informed and actively participate in shaping the future of our housing market. Should you have any questions or require assistance navigating these changes, do not hesitate to contact me. Together, we can make decisions that enhance and strengthen our communities.

On Monday, April 8th, Niagara is set to witness a remarkable Total Solar Eclipse, an event that is anticipated to not only bring a celestial spectacle but also significantly impact daily life for residents. With expectations of high traffic and a large influx of visitors from outside the region, here's what locals need to know to navigate this extraordinary day.

Community Impact and Preparations

The eclipse is expected to draw a substantial number of visitors to Niagara, seeking the perfect vantage point to experience this rare astronomical event. This influx is likely to lead to crowded streets and busy local businesses. Residents should anticipate higher traffic than usual and plan their day accordingly, especially if commuting or running errands.

Local Libraries Offering Eclipse Glasses

Safety is paramount when viewing a solar eclipse. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient to protect your eyes from the sun's rays during this event. To aid in safe viewing, some local libraries in Niagara are stepping up, offering two pairs of eclipse glasses per household. It's a fantastic initiative that ensures residents can witness the eclipse without risking eye damage. Check with your local library to see if they're participating in this giveaway.

School Closures and Community Advice

Given the day's significance and the expected disruptions, most schools across Niagara will be closed, allowing families to experience the eclipse together safely. Authorities advise residents to treat the day with the same caution as a major event or severe weather day. Stocking up on essentials like groceries and gas is recommended, as movement around the region could be challenging during peak eclipse hours.

What This Means for Niagara Residents

The solar eclipse presents a unique moment for the Niagara community to come together, albeit with a need for planning and preparation. While embracing the influx of visitors can boost local business and showcase our region's hospitality, residents should be mindful of the day's potential challenges.

• 1. Plan Ahead: Consider completing errands and appointments before the eclipse day to avoid the rush.
• 2. Community Support: Check on neighbours, especially the elderly or those who might not be aware of the event's impact, to ensure they have what they need.
• 3. Embrace the Experience: Despite the inconveniences, this is a rare natural phenomenon. If possible, take a moment to join in community viewing events or simply step outside (with your eclipse glasses) to share in this remarkable experience.

As Niagara gears up for the solar eclipse, it's an opportunity for residents to demonstrate resilience and community spirit. By staying informed, prepared, and supportive of one another, we can ensure that this day is remembered not just for the celestial spectacle but for the strength and unity of our community in facing the challenges it brings!

Please visit the region's website for more information regarding the eclipse: Niagara Region - Total Solar Eclipse 2024