📚 Stories by the Lake

🌧️ Weather

A classic Niagara mix to close out the week — a bit of sun, a bit of rain, and temperatures slowly trending in the right direction.

📚 We’re a couple days late… but we’re still counting it.

Earlier this week marked Tolkien Reading Day — a nod to the world of J.R.R. Tolkien and the stories that have stuck with readers for generations.

If you choose to take a step back and read a work by Tolkien, let us know which one.

Kuddos to those of you who have read The Silmarillion, without a doubt one of the most jam-packed books I’ve ever read.

Lets get into the news👇

Niagara-on-the-Lake native Pam Wells has released her new book In Their Shoes — a thoughtful and personal project shaped by her own experiences and conversations with others along the way.

Having grown up in NOTL before raising her family in Niagara, Pam brings a strong sense of community into her writing. This book reflects that — not just telling her story, but creating space for others to feel seen, understood, and supported.

Blending personal reflections with insights from friends, family, and others she’s connected with along her journey, In Their Shoes is written for both those navigating difficult seasons and those who want to better support the people around them.

At its heart, it’s about connection — and the reminder that no one has to walk through life alone.

You can find In Their Shoes through a number of online retailers including Indigo, Amazon, and Heritage.

It sounds made up — but on March 29, 1848, Niagara Falls actually ran dry.

A combination of strong winds and ice buildup at the mouth of Lake Erie temporarily blocked the flow of water into the Niagara River, leaving parts of the Falls completely exposed. For a brief moment in history, what’s usually one of the most powerful natural sights in the world… simply stopped.

Today, the anniversary is quietly recognized with exhibits and historical features in Niagara Falls — a small but fascinating piece of local history.

And for those in NOTL, it’s a reminder of how close we are to one of the most unique natural landmarks anywhere.

A quick trip over the bridge might just give you a new appreciation for it.

Looking for a reason to get out, meet some new people, and enjoy a glass of wine in NOTL?

A travel-themed speed dating night is coming to Konzelmann Estate Winery, bringing together singles (30–45) for an evening of conversation, connection, and a shared interest in exploring the world.

The format is simple — quick 5-minute chats, one complimentary drink, and a relaxed setting that makes meeting people feel a little more natural than the usual alternatives.

If there’s a match, you’ll find out within 24 hours.

Best case? You meet someone worth seeing again.
Worst case? You get out for the night, enjoy a great local spot, and have a few good conversations.

Not a bad way to spend an evening in town.

We’ve been hearing whispers… new cafés, new restaurants, and a lot happening as the season starts to pick up.

If you’ve seen something opening, heard about a new spot, or know of something coming to town — we’d love to hear about it.

NOTL News is built on what’s happening right here, and the best way we stay on top of it is through you.

Send it our way — tips, rumours, openings, events — anything worth knowing.

Let’s keep NOTL in the loop! 👉 [email protected]

Tolkien Reading Day may be a couple days behind us — but it’s a good reminder that great stories don’t just come from far-off places. Some start right here.

Niagara-on-the-Lake has its own literary footprint, shaped by writers who’ve left a lasting mark. William Kirby, who once edited the Niagara Mail, became known for his historical novel The Golden Dog. John Richardson, born at Fort George, gained international recognition with Wacousta, one of Canada’s earliest novels.

Others followed — like Grace Maclennan Grant Campbell, who spent her later years in town, and Mark Blagrave, born right here in NOTL.

It’s a quiet legacy, but an important one.

So if Tolkien got you thinking about stories this week, it’s worth remembering — a few meaningful ones have roots a little closer to home.

Thanks for reading today’s issue.

If you enjoyed it, pass it along to someone who always asks, “What’s going on in town?”

And while your at it go catch up on last weeks’ article! 👉 🍇 Spring-ing Into Spring

— Matthew Habinski, Editor @ NOTL News

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