Look Local Magazine Issue 11.6

ONTARIO'S PREMIUM RETAILER FOR OUTDOOR LIVING AND QUALITY HOME

ONTARIO'S PREMIUM RETAILER FOR OUTDOOR LIVING AND QUALITY HOME

oakville home leisure

LEISURE PRODUCTS WITH 17,000 SQ

LEISURE PRODUCTS WITH 17,000 SQ

FEET OF SELECTION IN OAKVILLE.

FEET OF SELECTION IN OAKVILLE.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Welcome to the September Issue of Look Local! We hope you enjoy the distinctly “back-to-school” themed stories in this issue.

For this month, we have worked with the BIA and the member businesses in Kerr Village in Oakville to produce a special feature focused on this vibrant and evolving neighbourhood. Whether you live nearby or further afield, make sure you visit Kerr Village this fall. There really is something for everyone.

I am happy to confirm that Danielle Leonard, who stepped into our Editor role on an interim basis in the spring, has agreed to stay on permanently as Editor of Look Local. Danielle is a terrific addition to our small team, and we are so happy she has decided to stay on. Welcome Danielle!

Tim Root

f LOOKLOCAL.CA c LOOKLOCALOAKBUR looklocal.ca

OAKVILLE & BURLINGTON

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 6

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Tim Root

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jonathon Root

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Beth Walder

EDITOR

Danielle Leonard

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lisa Evans, Lisa Thornbury

Kelly Putter, Denise Davy

Julie Achtermeier

ART DIRECTORS

Sarah Noble

Jennifer Brewster

Vanessa Chong

FRONT COVER PHOTO

Staged by The Sweetest Thing, Kerr Village, Oakville

For Advertising or General Inquiries

905.845.8732

info@looklocalmagazine.com

Look Local Magazine is published 10 times per year and is distributed for free at over 550 locations in Oakville, Burlington and surrounding areas. Copies are also distributed to select neighbourhoods using direct mail. Look Local Magazine is owned and published by Novavita Publishing Limited 1464 Cornwall Road # 8, Oakville, Ontario L6J 7W5

Copyright: All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission from the Publisher is strictly prohibited.

Editorial contributions: Look Local encourages contributions of articles, recipes, photographs and other creative materials from the community. Please email info@looklocalmagazine.com or mail to 1464 Cornwall Road # 8, Oakville, Ontario L6J 7W5. We reserve the right to edit materials received and can assume no responsibility for unsolicited materials. Select photos courtesy of Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation

Disclaimer: Advertisements published in Look Local Magazine are supplied solely by the advertiser and the Publisher accepts no responsibility for opinions expressed in advertisements or for copyright issues with respect to them.

Printed in Canada

It’s not easy to make the switch from the relaxed hours of summer to the routinefilled days of fall (think packing lunches, more traffic and homework checks). I still remember waking up with a stomach ache every first day of school through my childhood, my nerves sizzling with equal parts excitement and fear for the months ahead. While it’s been a long time since I’ve had first-day jitters, I still think the fall season ushers in more change than any other time of year. The air grows chill, leaves change colour, and we say good-bye to leisure and hello to schedules.

For parents whose kids return to class, equipping them with tools for personal and academic success is often on the back-to-school checklist. Hiring a tutor can make a tremendous difference to both your child’s selfconfidence and grades. Read our article that offers tips on how to hire a tutor most suited to your child’s needs.

This is the month that packed lunches make their comeback, and few recess snacks are more coveted than the freshly baked cookie. Lately, this round confection is enjoying new found fame as drool-worthy images crowd social media. Whether you sneak one into your kid’s lunch or save them for yourself, we encourage you to give in to the cookie love by visiting the local bakeries listed in our cookie tour story.

You can always work the calories off with some exercise! The hours of sunlight may be dwindling, but there’s still plenty of time to try a new sport. How about pickleball? Now is an ideal time of year to give it a go – I know you’ve been thinking about it (who hasn’t?). This social sport welcomes players of all abilities, and we have the scoop on how to get started.

As we increasingly move our lives back indoors (however reluctantly), a simple paint refresh can be the perfect antidote to end-of-summer blues. It’s a simple DIY that’s easy on the household budget, too. Check out our article on trending colours and top tips for a flawless paint job.

The colours of autumn will soon be on spectacular display throughout Oakville and Burlington. Getting out for a hike, bike ride or relaxing stroll is the best way to appreciate it. This issue, we spotlight Kerr Village which offers a blend of cool cafes, trendy boutiques and a short walk from nature trails and Lake Ontario. Be sure to add it your fall to-do list.

BY JULIE ACHTERMEIER

Need to breathe life into your home while sticking to a budget? Painting is an inexpensive way to freshen up any room. With a bit of time and effort, you can re-energize any space with a fresh coat of colour.

Hot Colour Trends

Each year, a new colour palette sets the stage for the coming season, and this year is no exception. “We are seeing dark and moody blues and greens,” says Iva from Dove+Arrow in Oakville. She adds that jewel tones are generally popular for a dramatic look and that a surprise pop of pink has emerged, inspired by the Barbie movie. Regardless of the trends, choosing a wall colour is uniquely personal and has more to do with your taste than the latest style. Are you looking for a calm ambience? Stick to neutrals. Do you want to bring an energetic mood to the room? Choose a bold new colour. If you’re on the fence, keep walls neutral and add punches of colour with a bright cushion, lamp or wall art.

What Paint Should I Buy?

When choosing a paint brand, look for one that’s washable, especially if you have children. Paint finishes with a higher sheen are easier to clean. A satin finish has a higher gloss and is excellent for a child’s room, baseboards and trim. An eggshell finish gives a slight shine to walls, while a matte finish has less sheen, and both are very wipeable. Flat finishes are harder to clean and show more wall imperfections. Bathrooms and kitchens require a paint formulated for humid environments that are mildew resistant. Whatever your preference is for brand, sheen or colour, be sure to buy the correct type of paint for the room.

Tips for a Flawless Room

Before you paint, patch any holes with a patching compound. Patch in skim coats, scraping the excess with a spreader. Once dry, use a fine-grit sanding block to gently sand the patched area. It should feel smooth with no apparent lumps or bumps.

Steps to give furniture a facelift

by Dove+Arrow

1 Prep the piece by using a degreasing cleaner and give a light sanding.

2 Ensure that you are using quality paint for furniture. Furniture and cabinetry paints are formulated for maximum adherence to furniture finishes.

3 A good brush helps create a smooth finish.

4 Visit our shop with a photo of your project piece and we can guide you through the process and recommend the best paint for the desired finish!

Quick links to local paint stores

Dove + Arrow, Oakville doveandarrowshop.com

Bronte Village Paint & Décor, Oakville brontevillagepaint.ca

Painter's Place, Oakville paintersplace.ca

Farrow & Ball (Hansen & Lübbers), Oakville hansenlubbers.com

Burlington Paint, Burlington burlingtonpaint.com

Pure Boutique, Burlington pureboutique.ca

Most latex paints today are created with primer built in, which means better overall coverage on the walls. It also means you can skip priming the entire walls first, unless you cover a very dark colour with a very light one. However, you do need to seal the patched areas. To save time, use the paint colour you have purchased and brush a thin coat over the patching with your brush. This acts as your primer coat and seals the patch before you roll the walls.

Be sure to buy a good quality angled paint brush (1.5 to two inches) and cut in the perimeter of the room to create a nice, clean edge. Once the walls are rolled, allow sufficient drying time between coats. The higher the humidity, the longer a room will take to dry, so be sure to have the air conditioning on during warm days or run fans to circulate the air.

Whether you’re painting a bedroom, basement or bathroom, choosing the right paint and prepping the walls will ensure a successful project every time.

SMART LIVING

PICKLE BALL

THE SPORT FOR EVERYONE

by LISA THORNBURY

Familiar with terms like dink shot, double bounce and groundstroke?

If so, chances are you’re a pickleballer. Despite the enthusiasm of friends urging me to play, I’m among the few remaining pickleball holdouts in my neighborhood. Lack of coordination and depth perception have kept me on the sidelines, but the allure of venting my frustrations with an oversized ping-pong paddle has me intrigued.

What exactly is pickleball?  A fusion of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court, divided by a low net. Two pickleball courts fit in one side of a tennis court (many tennis courts have pickleball lines to allow for both types of play). The rules of play are quite simple, which makes it accessible to beginners.

The game starts with an underhand serve, and players must wait until the ball bounces before returning it. Get this… a serve that intentionally hits the non-receiving opposing player is called a “Nasty Nelson.” That alone makes me want to rush out and buy a paddle.

“Whether you’re a serious athlete or a beginner like me, there’s a place for you in this sport. It’s very inclusive,” says Jolanda Rettinger of Oakville.

Jolanda and her husband Dwayne have made Friday night matches with their neighbours a regular “date night” activity. “Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles which makes it super social,” she says.

A robust match followed by a game recap over cocktails and possibly deep-fried pickles? Yes, please.

Where to play

Both Oakville and Burlington Parks and Rec offer programs for new players. You can also join a recreational league or find a nearby court for a casual game with friends (or make new ones on the court).

Finding a court or learnto-play location is as easy as Googling, “Pickleball near me.” There are both outdoor and indoor pickleball courts so you can play through all seasons. The Oakville and Burlington Pickleball Associations are other great places to learn more and connect with other players in your area. Many private athletic and racquet clubs in the area have also enthusiastically adopted the sport.

If you’re just starting pickleball, consider these

five tips

Get the right equipment. You’ll need a pickleball paddle and ball, running shoes and a willingness to learn. You can purchase court shoes, if desired, once you’ve committed to the sport.

Master the basics. Practice your grip and paddle control. This will help you achieve more precise shots. Also, work on your footwork and positioning. Being in the right place at the right time can make all the difference.

Communicate with your partner and learn to anticipate your opponent’s moves to develop a strategy to outsmart them.

Pickleball is popular y’all. You may need to wait for

Why pickleball is the trendiest game in town

Pickleball’s popularity is not surprising, given its appeal to people of all ages and skill levels. It’s a fun way to stay active, meet new people and share some laughs. The fast-paced action and strategic gameplay keep players engaged and coming back for more. And, it might be what finally gets a newbie like me to answer the Pickler’s rally cry to join the pickleball revolution.

Get started:

Just enter “pickleball” into the search bar at www.Oakville.ca or www.Burlington.ca for a complete list of resources and opportunities.

Or you can head to www.burlingtonpickleball.com to learn more about the resources available through the Burlington Pickleball Association.

BY DANIELLE LEONARD

err Village may be Oakville’s best kept secret! This charming, yet eclectic, slice of Oakville is unlike any other part of town. Its one-of-a-kind character blends old, new, trendy and traditional to create a welcoming vibe for everyone.

The bustling and revitalized Kerr Street has become a favourite destination for residents and out-of-town visitors to stroll, shop local, grab a java to-go or savour a leisurely meal at a popular restaurant. A truly diverse community, its local businesses represent 39 different cultures, offering a selection of shops and restaurants to suit a wide variety of tastes and backgrounds.

Enjoy the best of fall in Kerr Village

As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, it’s an ideal time to enjoy a day or evening outside. And, Kerr Village is a perfect setting. Here, you can take in the urban street vibe, then head for a walk in nature. After all, Kerr Street is only a stone’s throw from Lake Ontario. After shopping and grabbing a bite, you can continue south, by foot,

to Tannery Park where wooded trails and a boardwalk along Lake Ontario await. If you’re up for a longer stroll, continue east across the bridge on Lakeshore Road to downtown Oakville or, alternatively, turn west for a scenic walk toward Coronation Park. For an activity with less exertion (or if the weather isn’t quite so cooperative), consider a movie at the independently owned theatre, Film.ca, located a short distance from Kerr Street.

Celebrate the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids in September

Families with young children won’t want to miss the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids on Sunday, September 10 in Westwood Park (at the corner of Kerr Street and Bond Street) from noon until 6 p.m. Admission is free!

Bring the whole family to this outdoor celebration packed with live kid-friendly music, exciting hands-on activities and mouth-watering food. The entertainment line-up includes two on-stage performances of the Wiggles characters, Dorothy the dinosaur and Wags the dog at 1:45 and 3:30 p.m.

For a smashing good time, catch a performance of CRASH Rhythm at 12:30 p.m. This alternative and engaging approach to music education and exploration uses bucket drumming to tie together teamwork, creativity and fun while learning about music, composition, rhythm and drumming.

At 2:30 p.m., kids can explore more musical beats with Mystic Drumz. Its interactive performance showcases eclectic percussion instruments sourced from around the globe, linking geography to sounds, rhythms to science and laughter to learning. The closing performance (4:30 to 6 p.m.) is by teen band, Leave Those Kids Alone. The Fan Vote Winner of CBC Music Searchlight 2022 features five talented teenagers from Windsor and Detroit playing original songs, along with classic rock favourites.

Plenty of munchies and refreshments will be on offer throughout the day with food vendors that include The Mermaid, Boffo’s, Sandwich Society, Zesty Pita and La Dolce Vita. Look out for ballooning clowns, a superhero and a roaming social media photo booth.

Admission to the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids is FREE! The schedule is subject to change, so be sure to check before heading out.

New shops in Kerr Village

Kerr Village makes supporting local easy, thanks to its incredible selection of businesses run by passionate founders. This fall, be sure to visit some of the newer additions!

Wared Restaurant

438 Kerr Street

wared.ca

This Middle Eastern restaurant serves authentic flavours from the rich culinary traditions of the region. Its mission is to provide a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Middle Eastern culture using fresh ingredients, skilled craftsmanship and impeccable service.

Mary’s Muffins

326 Kerr Street

marysmuffins.com

Enjoy delicious freshly baked muffins, including vegan, glutenfree and keto! Founder Mary’s mission is to nourish your family with healthy, handcrafted muffins. Order fresh or flash frozen to save for later. They offer local delivery and pickup, as well as catering.

Country Road of Canada

119 Kerr Street

country-road-of-canada-inc. business.site

Visit this clothing boutique for a selection of luxury European brands from England, Ireland, France and Scotland for men and women, representing Saint James, France; Irelands Eye, Dublin; Armorlux knit, France; Lochcarron kilts and tartans, Scotland, and more.

Wet Coffee

111 Kerr Street

wetcoffeecommunity.com

Enjoy coffee and community with an artfully crafted beverage and delicious bite. Sit in the interior that’s modern, yet comfy, with a retro vibe, or sip your java on the patio. Coffee travelers for larger groups are also available to order.

Anna Cakes

46 Lakeshore Road West

cakebyanna.ca

Choose from a variety of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, pastries, and more! There are gluten-free options, too. Cakes and baked goods can be made to order, but only a limited number of orders are taken per week. Breakfast is also available.

Top Tier Company

143 Kerr Street

toptiercompany.ca

This team of skilled and passionate barbers is dedicated to creating the haircut that stands out, tailored to your unique style and preferences in a hip barbershop with a friendly atmosphere.

My Back Shed

131 Kerr Street

mybackshed.com

This is the destination for enthusiasts of French Country, antiques, jewelry, hand painted furniture and shabby chic home decor. Step into the “as-is” room for a unique flea market experience. Custom furniture painting and upholstery also available.

For Adults: La Doublure Melissa Da Costa is a fantastic writer with stories that never disappoint (French)

Ketto Design Products (Canadian)

20 Bonnes Raisons D’aller À L’ecole All fun reasons to go back to school

Kerr Village

DOVE + ARROW

Dove+Arrow specializes in local gifts, unique decor and bespoke furniture. They carry five different furniture paint brands and love teaching their customers how to use them to transform their homes on a budget.

doveandarrowshop.com

FARMHOUSE ARTISAN CHEESE

Never worry about wrapping cheese again with your own personal cheese cave from Farmhouse Artisan Cheese. This is the best way to store the delicious cheese you’ll surely want to pick up when visiting their shop in Kerr Village.

farmhouseartisancheese.com

THE SWEETEST THING

Cupcakes, cookies, custom cakes and more live at this beautiful blue shop in the heart of Kerr Village. Everything is delicious - a must visit!

thesweetestthing.com

VEREDA CENTRAL

At Vereda Central you’ll find outstanding Colombian coffee that is roasted on-site in their Kerr Village café. Try their Coffee + Bourbon beans, which have been aged in oak bourbon barrels, with some dark chocolate or a piece of stinky cheese.

veredacentral.ca

IL ÉTAIT UNE FOIS

Find your favourite French books, for both adults and kids, at this lovely little bookshop on Lakeshore Road. iletait1fois.ca

THE KIND MATTER COMPANY

The Kind Matter Company is a local refillery spot with beautiful soaps, shampoos and other ecofriendly products, featuring hand-made kitchen, bath and laundry home goods. thekindmattercompany.com

TUTOR?

• WHAT TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR CHILD •

BY LISA EVANS

The start of a new school year can be an exciting time, but also stressinducing for students who struggle to keep up with classwork. Many students are still experiencing pandemic after-effects and have yet to catch up to their grade levels. A tutor can help ease their struggles and lift their grades, but finding the right match is important. Here’s what to consider when hiring a tutor.

Take a long-term approach

While most parents reach out to a tutor after seeing poor test marks, Suman Joseph, Centre Director of Sylvan Learning Burlington, says a student’s struggles often stem from issues deeper than academic misunderstanding. “A child’s struggle at school may stem from lack of self-confidence and school engagement, which significantly impacts their academic performance and perseverance.”

While parents’ main goal of hiring a tutor is often to improve academic grades, Joseph says tutoring is also about changing a child’s attitude toward learning. While a tutor can help improve subject matter understanding in the short term, developing a love of learning and resilience in kids will help them to face further challenges later on in their academic journeys.

Helen Trang, Centre Director of ICan Education for Burlington says a tutor is like a coach. “Great coaches boost a person’s confidence and inspire them to achieve higher standards,” she says.

So instead of asking your potential tutor how they will improve your child’s grades this year, ask how they will help your child’s confidence and prepare them for future academic success.

Tutoring isn’t one size fits all

Every child learns differently. A tutoring centre that customizes its strategies to the individual is more likely to experience success than a centre that blindly throws grade level work at a child. “The right tutoring centre or tutor should be able to change teaching strategies and/or the student’s program accordingly, so that the student is always learning at their comfort level and challenged at the right times,” says Joseph.

Vineet Khanna, owner and Centre Director of Mathnasium Burlington says it’s important to consider the child’s learning style. “For some students, one-on-one tutoring works better, while others require a more listening and hands-on approach,” says Khanna.

Most tutoring centres will assess the student’s learning level to create a custom program. Everyone (parents, student and tutor) should be on the same page about what the goals of the tutoring sessions are.

WHERE TO FIND A LOCAL TUTOR

• Ask parents or teachers for referrals

• Check private schools for after-school tutor programs

• Reach out to an academy in your community, well-known options include:

o Brain Power Enrichment Programs brainpower.ca

o Kumon, kumon.com

o Mathnasium, mathnasium.com

o TutorBright, tutorbright.com

o Oxford Learning, oxfordlearning.com

o Sylvan Learning, sylvanlearning.com

o Ican Education icaneducation.ca

o Prep Academy Tutors prepacademytutors.com

ICAN EDUCATION

KUMON

Time commitment

Helen Trang says the length of time a student sees a tutor will depend on the objectives. “If the objective is to foster a love for learning and to keep the child challenged, the child could continue every school year. If the child needs remedial support, it depends on where the child’s skills are today versus their goal,” says Trang.

The amount of time a child will spend with a tutor also depends on the level the child is currently at and what their goals are. Khanna advises parents not to impose a timeline or tell a child they have “x” number of sessions. “It’s important to not put pressure on the child to improve in a certain amount of time. Everybody learns differently and at their own pace.”

Budgeting for tutoring

Typically tutoring ranges from $50 to $65 per hour. How much to budget will depend on how much help a child needs. Joseph advises not to hold off to “save for tutoring” at a later date. “While tutoring may seem expensive at the start, it’s important for the child to get the right help at the right time,” says Joseph. Many tutoring centres have payment plans to help parents with budgeting.

SCOUTS OF CANADA

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES

BY DENISE DAVY

In 1907, Robert Baden-Powell, a Lieutenant General in the British army, held a camp for boys on an island in southern England to test the ideas he’d included in a book called Scouting for Boys. About 20 boys attended, several of whom were his son’s friends. This small event would mark the beginning of a worldwide movement, with Baden-Powell’s book eventually selling more than 100 million copies.

Since Baden-Powell formed The Boys Scouts Association in 1910, millions of children and youth, ages 5 to 26, have participated in Scouts and learned about nature, the outdoors and the importance of friendship and leadership.

When Scouts first began, young girls also expressed an interest in getting involved. In response, Baden-Powell and his sister Agnes started Girl Guides in 1910. However, in 1998, Scouts became fully co-ed, and it continues to be committed to diversity and inclusivity today.

In Canada, there are more than 50,000 youth in Scouts who participate in outdoor adventure, fun experiences and community contributions, making Scouts Canada this country’s leading coed youth organization.

Saturday, September 23rd 12PM to 2PM

The mission of Scouts Canada is to “help develop well-rounded youth, better prepared for success in the world.” In an age of screens, Scouts offers a breath of fresh air – motivating kids to get outside and explore the real world. Sports and outdoor adventure make up a large part of the activities. They learn first aid and emergency training, and are taught about healthy living, respect for the environment and the importance of nature. Personal development is emphasized in the organization, as Scouts are encouraged to volunteer in their community.

The groups are separated by age and include Beaver Scouts (5-7); Cub Scouts (8-10); Scouts (11-14); Venturer Scouts (15-17) and Rover Scouts (18-26).

In Beaver Scouts, kids spend the bulk of their time exploring the outdoors and building social skills through nature walks, hikes, tree planting, games and crafts. Earning personal achievement badges is encouraged.

SCOUTS OF CANADA

Cub Scouts are introduced to more variety, from camping and hiking to community projects and environmental stewardship programs.

Scouts hone their outdoor adventure skills with activities like mountain biking, rock climbing and lots of camping, as well as participate in unique opportunities like national or international jamborees.

Venturer Scouts begin building the knowledge and skills for career development, as well as participate in outdoor adventures, weekend events, extended hikes, leaveno-trace camping, spiritual reflection, community service and more.

Kids of any age can apply to join Scouts Canada at any time of year. Memberships are renewable on a yearly basis. To ensure all children can access the Scouts Canada experience, the No One Left Behind program provides financial subsidies to families in need.

Visit www.scouts.ca to find a Scouts group in your area.

Do you sneeze and freeze? Do your giggles turn to dribbles?

Do you sneeze and freeze? Do your giggles turn to dribbles?

“Finding this program was the best thing to have happened to me. I had become pretty recluse, and now I feel free and liberated from my circumstances. I have learned so much about my body that I didn’t know before - it’s a wonderful blessing.”

“Finding this program was the best thing to have happened to me. I had become pretty recluse, and now I feel free and liberated from my circumstances. I have learned so much about my body that I didn’t know before - it’s a wonderful blessing.”

Is there anything more annoying than a bladder leak when you laugh, cough, sneeze or exercise? What about the constant urge to use the

Is there anything more annoying than a bladder leak when you laugh, cough, sneeze or exercise? What about the constant urge to use the

bathroom and the worry that you won’t find one in time?

bathroom and the worry that you won’t find one in time?

Here’s the truth. These are common problems faced by 2/3 of all women, but that does not make them normal. Our bodies should not leak urine. If they do, it can be a sign of disfunction in the pelvic floor muscles. Once these problems start, they tend to get worse and sadly too many women simply suffer in silence.

Here’s the truth. These are common problems faced by 2/3 of all women, but that does not make them normal. Our bodies should not leak urine. If they do, it can be a sign of disfunction in the pelvic floor muscles. Once these problems start, they tend to get worse and sadly too many women simply suffer in silence.

Essentially getting these three area to be friends again and work together in a coordinated fashion. Leaks go away, urgency subsides, and you feel in control of your bladder instead of your bladder controlling you. 95% of those who complete

Essentially getting these three area to be friends again and work together in a coordinated fashion. Leaks go away, urgency subsides, and you feel in control of your bladder instead of your bladder controlling you. 95% of those who complete

treatment report a significant quality of life improvement and nearly 80% eliminate pads or significantly reduce the use of pads.

treatment report a significant quality of life improvement and nearly 80% eliminate pads or significantly reduce the use of pads.

UROSPOT is a private urology clinic that is disrupting this condition. Combining innovative health care technology and education, UROSPOT is quite simply changing people’s lives.

UROSPOT is a private urology clinic that is disrupting this condition. Combining innovative health care technology and education, UROSPOT is quite simply changing people’s lives.

The luxurious environment at UROSPOT is filled with a caring team focused on changing your life. At UROSPOT you sit fully clothed on a Health Canada approved “chair” lovingly referred to as the Kegel Throne. This chair uses high intensity electromagnetic energy to contract your pelvic floor muscles 11,000 times in 28 minutes. That’s right. 11,000 kegels in 28 minutes. The stimulation of the muscles happens with no pain, no person touching you and nothing going inside your body. You simply sit while the chair restores the strength of your pelvic floor. It is the most dignified treatment. Not only do you receive 11,000 kegels, but the energy also acts as a “reboot” of the neuromuscular connection between your brain, bladder and pelvic floor.

The luxurious environment at UROSPOT is filled with a caring team focused on changing your life. At UROSPOT you sit fully clothed on a Health Canada approved “chair” lovingly referred to as the Kegel Throne. This chair uses high intensity electromagnetic energy to contract your pelvic floor muscles 11,000 times in 28 minutes. That’s right. 11,000 kegels in 28 minutes. The stimulation of the muscles happens with no pain, no person touching you and nothing going inside your body. You simply sit while the chair restores the strength of your pelvic floor. It is the most dignified treatment. Not only do you receive 11,000 kegels, but the energy also acts as a “reboot” of the neuromuscular connection between your brain, bladder and pelvic floor.

The first thing you see at UROSPOT is a wall with dozens of testimonials from women and men eager to share their outcomes with others. One happy client wrote “I sleep through the night, I can drive for hours with no leaks, I can jump on a trampoline with my kids, my life is changed!” Another shared “I am so happy with my treatment! I am so glad I decided to take this opportunity. My results have been life changing. From sneezing, coughing, walking distances, I am so impressed at how much treatment has helped! I haven’t had to use a pad or bladder support since.”

The first thing you see at UROSPOT is a wall with dozens of testimonials from women and men eager to share their outcomes with others. One happy client wrote “I sleep through the night, I can drive for hours with no leaks, I can jump on a trampoline with my kids, my life is changed!” Another shared “I am so happy with my treatment! I am so glad I decided to take this opportunity. My results have been life changing. From sneezing, coughing, walking distances, I am so impressed at how much treatment has helped! I haven’t had to use a pad or bladder support since.”

Everything starts with a complimentary consultation at UROSPOT. During this appointment you will receive so much valuable education and you will get to try the chair. If you have benefits for physiotherapy, they can be used towards the cost of treatment as well. Imagine using your benefits for something so life changing. What are you waiting for? Visit us at www.urospot.com to learn more.

Everything starts with a complimentary consultation at UROSPOT. During this appointment you will receive so much valuable education and you will get to try the chair. If you have benefits for physiotherapy, they can be used towards the cost of treatment as well. Imagine using your benefits for something so life changing. What are you waiting for? Visit us at www.urospot.com to learn more.

A pelvic floor revolution is here.

Did you know it’s common for moms to pee a little when they work-out?

Did you know it’s common for moms to pee a little when they work-out?

Take Chloe, for example, who had no hope when she jumped rope. Here’s the truth. This is a common problem faced by many women, but that does not mean it’s normal. Our bodies should not leak urine. If they do, it can be a sign of dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles. Once these problems start, they tend to get worse and sadly, too many women simply suffer in silence.

Take Chloe, for example, who had no hope when she jumped rope. Here’s the truth. This is a common problem faced by many women, but that does not mean it’s normal. Our bodies should not leak urine. If they do, it can be a sign of dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles. Once these problems start, they tend to get worse and sadly, too many women simply suffer in silence.

Chloe was one of these women. Working out was an important part of her life, especially since it fueled her emotionally as much as it did physically. Then one day, while jumping rope, she felt a leak and her pants were wet. That was the start of her bladder leaks.

Chloe was one of these women. Working out was an important part of her life, especially since it fueled her emotionally as much as it did physically. Then one day, while jumping rope, she felt a leak and her pants were wet. That was the start of her bladder leaks.

Chloe heard about UROSPOT, a private pelvic health and urology clinic disrupting this condition and six sessions later, Chloe is showing burpees who’s boss.

Chloe heard about UROSPOT, a private pelvic health and urology clinic disrupting this condition and six sessions later, Chloe is showing burpees who’s boss.

At UROSPOT, you sit fully-clothed on a Health Canada approved chair that uses high intensity electromagnetic energy to contract your pelvic floor muscles 11,000 times in 28 minutes. No one is touching you and nothing is going inside your body. You simply sit while the chair restores your pelvic floor. It’s pelvic health done differently. A revolution indeed. Treatment is eligible for partial benefit coverage.

At UROSPOT, you sit fully-clothed on a Health Canada approved chair that uses high intensity electromagnetic energy to contract your pelvic floor muscles 11,000 times in 28 minutes. No one is touching you and nothing is going inside your body. You simply sit while the chair restores your pelvic floor. It’s pelvic health done differently. A revolution indeed. Treatment is eligible for partial benefit coverage.

Do you lose hope when you jump rope?

Do you lose hope when you jump rope?

Say goodbye to bladder leaks & urgency.

Say goodbye to bladder leaks & urgency.

PAMPER YOURSELF

BY LISA EVANS

s the lazy hazy days of summer give way to the hectic routines of fall, you may find yourself feeling slightly overwhelmed by the start of the new season. Between unpacking your sweaters and juggling kids’ activities –and before planning for holidays (yup, those are coming sooner than you think) – be sure to schedule time to rejuvenate your mind and body as you prepare for fall. Halton and surrounding regions are home to several spots ready to pamper, restore and recharge your batteries.

WELLNESS FOR THE BODY BRONTE

Serving the Bronte Village community of Oakville since 2005, the team of healthcare practitioners at Wellness for the Body aims to ensure clients achieve a healthy, stress-free and pain-free lifestyle. Services range from counselling to chiropractic care, naturopathic care, osteopathy, acupuncture and massage therapy. They are open 7 days a week.

We are a two-story level spa with a premium nail bar on the lower level and a wellness centre on the upper level!

Cafe & Lounge | Mani/Pedi Facials | Waxing & Threading Brow Lamination

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PEARLE SPA BURLINGTON

If you’re looking to turn off all distractions to pamper yourself for a day (or two), look no further than the Pearle Spa. Located on the picturesque Burlington waterfront in the Pearle Hotel, this luxurious day spa is the perfect place to escape from the stresses of daily life and unwind. Amenities include a traditional Hammam steam room, plus a lounge and pool for a complete full-day experience. Choose among facials, body treatments, massage, manicures and pedicures, and consider extending the experience by booking a room at the Pearle Hotel and dining at Isabelle Restaurant & Lounge.

YELLOW DOOR OAKVILLE

For a revitalizing lift in your spirit and body, look no further than this modern and welcoming day self-care studio. Grab a drink at the fully licensed bar and cafe while you enjoy your treatment. Yellow Door offers manicures, pedicures, facials, jetpeel, waxing, brow and lash treatments. Here, wellness is addressed from the inside out, offering acupuncture and ayurveda massage as well as meditation, massage and reiki energy healing.

OM MASSAGE & WELLNESS DUNDAS

Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Dundas beside the Starbucks patio, OM Massage & Wellness is a tranquil oasis catering to all aspects of health. OM puts relaxation at the forefront of all its healthcare services. OM Massage & Wellness offers registered massage therapy, naturopathic medicine, osteopathy, acupuncture, reflexology and physiotherapy. Mental health services including social work, psychotherapy and yoga therapy ensure the whole body is taken care of at OM.

You shouldn’t have to wait until you’re burnt out to book personal care time. Wellness should always be a top priority because when you take care of yourself, you’re better able to care for others. Whether it’s a single treatment or a full day, time spent at the spa can help prepare you to meet the busy season ahead with energy and optimism.

YELLOW DOOR

Are

WENDYINGLIS

SEPT 9

Art in my Garden

This free art exhibition of 50 local artists in the gardens of historic Oakville is a self-guided tour (approximately 40 minutes to walk) noon to 3 p.m. Download a map with locations, plus lemonade and patio fun! South of downtown Oakville artinmygarden.ca

ELLE BRUCE

SEPT 10

4th Annual Kerrfest Kids

Bring the family to this free outdoor celebration, noon to 6 p.m., packed with live kid-friendly music, hands-on activities and mouth-watering food. Westwood Park, Oakville kerrfest.ca

SEPT 12

1st Annual Ride for Safetynet Choose

between a 50km or 20km ride through Oakville, Burlington and Hamilton. All proceeds will support Safetynet’s tutoring program, now located in a new dedicated space to serve students in grades one to 12. safetynetservices.ca/bike-ridefor-charity

SEPT 16

Head for the Hills Craft Beverage Festival

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, check out the tons of unique brewers, cideries, new craft beverages and food trucks on offer at the festival. 11494 Trafalgar Road, Georgetown headforthehills.ca

SEPT 16-17

15th Annual Telling Tales Festival

More than

40 leading Canadian children’s authors, illustrators and storytellers present across five vibrant stages! Story readings, nature walks, creative workshops and music will be offered.

Royal Botanical Gardens, 680 Plains Road West, Burlington tellingtales.org

SEPT 17

Terry Fox Run

The annual Terry Fox Run has become a fall tradition in Canada. Come walk, run or roll a 1km, 5km or 10km distance. Register for Oakville (Coronation Park) at 9 a.m. or Burlington (Waterfront Hotel) at 8 a.m. terryfox.org/terry-fox-run

SEPT 17

SEPT 17

British Car Day

Hosted annually by the Toronto Triumph Club since 1984, it’s the largest, one-day, all-British car event in North America!

Bronte Creek Provincial Park, Oakville

britishcarday.com/BCD/

An Afternoon of Exceptional Music

Enjoy a captivating afternoon of classical music with some of Canada’s most accomplished young performers who are either past CMC national finalists or completed the CMC National Finals. The performances will be magical.

Maple Grove United Church, Oakville eventbrite.ca/e/an-afternoon-of-exceptional-music-tickets690226354607?aff=oddtdtcreator

SEPT 21-24

Ancaster Fall Fair

Family entertainment includes music, talent shows, pie eating contests, a hot sauce competition, baby show, church service and the demolition derby. There are also agricultural demonstrations, horse and livestock shows, fruit and vegetable competitions, antiques and more.

Ancaster Fairgrounds, 630 Trinity Road South ancasterfair.ca

Harvest Festival

SEPT 22-24

Milton Fall fair

It’s country fun for everyone with delicious food, fun rides, a classic car show and exhibits – plus live bands on Friday and Saturday evenings. miltonfair.com

SEPT 23

SEPT 23-24

Learn about harvest time on the Victorian farm, press apples, help winnow wheat, pick a pumpkin and play games. Fresh corn and hotdogs will also be for sale. Cost is included with park entry. Bronte Creek Provincial Park brontecreek.org

SEPT 24

Walk to the Lighthouse

Join this approximately 5km walk to help raise funds for Joseph Brant Hospital’s inpatient and outpatient Mental Health & Addiction Services. Meet at the hospital parking lot at 10 a.m. to walk to the lighthouse and back. equilibriumburlington.com/ walk-to-the-lighthouse

Fire Prevention Week Kickoff

The Oakville Fire department invites families to have fun while learning about fire safety at this free event, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is not required. Oakville Fire Training Campus, 1144 South Service Road West oakville.ca/community-events

OCT 1

Oakville

Kidney Walk

Help raise crucial funds to support kidney disease research and programs designed to improve the lives of Canadians living with kidney disease and those who care for them. Registration at 10 a.m. Bronte Heritage

Waterfront Park kidneywalk.ca

COOKIES Irresistable

BY KELLY PUTTER

AROUND

All things cookies appear to be a big culinary trend as we brace ourselves for shorter days, back to school and the close of yet another brief but sweet summer season.

A universally approved treat that even our topsy-turvy world can agree to enjoy, the cookie is enjoying some fame as of late. A scan of social media feeds will tell you cookies are a hot commodity across North America.

But you don’t need to travel far to savour melt-in-your-mouth morsels made with love. Spend a fall afternoon touring local bakeries for the best freshly baked cookies around – and, be sure to grab some to go!

First stop is Bronte Village’s Sweet! Bakery. Oatmeal, cranberries and pecans go into its biggest seller, a cult classic that bakery owner Ashley Armstrong says customers jokingly refer to as the “crack cookie.” “If we stopped selling these people would be upset,” she says.

Another big hit for the Bronte bakery are its Lofthouse cookies. Often sold in grocery stores with thick pink or blue icing, these soft sugar cookies are plant-based so they’re great for vegans. Cookie sandwiches are popular, too, with a variety of versions such as the Nanaimo bar sandwich.

Our next stop offers the perfect antidote for grumbly kids who sulk at the thought of returning to classrooms. Cookies adorned with toppers saying ‘Happy first day of school!’ are available, says Erin Nocent, the owner of The Sweetest Thing, located in Kerr Village, Oakville.

But their most popular cookie is called Crispy Chewy, a chewy chocolate chip cookie with crispy cookie bits throughout. “People often buy a dozen at a time. They don’t last forever, especially if you have kids.”

While customers love their classics, The Sweetest Thing is always introducing new products, such as a Snicker Doodle cookie and its recently added Cosmic Brownie, a dense and fudgy chocolate brownie cookie topped with chocolate ganache and sprinkles. Last fall saw the debut of the Swifty, a vanilla chai latte cookie inspired by Taylor Swift.

Crispy Chewy

Nocent claims cookies are a never-fail gift no matter the occasion. “People come in and put together two boxes of cookies, one for themselves and one for a friend. Maybe something good happened – they bought a house or it’s a new baby or maybe there’s a sick dog. People always like getting cookies as a gift. It’s a tangible way to show you’re thinking about someone.”

The cookie rush is pushing its way north thanks, in part, to the U.S.-based phenom known as Crumbl Cookies, a cult fave that opened in July in Mississauga at the Heartland Centre. With a weekly rotating menu of over 200 flavours and iconic pink boxes, the cookies feature frosted tops and creative decorations. It’s worth a trip to the company known for localizing its cookie flavours as they did with their Saskatoon Berry cheesecake cookie.

Add these bakeries to your cookie tour:

Black Forest Pastry Shop

184 Lakeshore Road East, Downtown Oakville Sugar Suite

156 Lakeshore

Road East, Downtown Oakville sugarsuitecakes.com

Cakes Sweets Treats

1600 Kerns Road, Burlington cakessweetstreats.com

Burlington’s favourite vegan bakery, Kelly’s Bake Shop, is known for its delightful cupcakes, but they also specialize in one-of-a-kind cookies. While there are plenty of decadent choices, if your sweet tooth is tempered by a health conscious bent, try the Skinny Cookie. Sweetened with bananas, coconut sugar and maple syrup, it’s their bestselling cookie.

NADEGE PATISSERIE KELLY’S BAKE SHOP

Pumpkin Macaron Skinny Cookie

Nadege Patisserie, in downtown Oakville, concludes our tour. In addition to classic cookies, croissants, cakes and bonbons, the bakery specializes in macarons, meringue-based sandwich cookies in pistachio, fleur de sel, cotton candy, cassis and others. These colourful confections that include a butter cream filling are popular with children, says Nadege supervisor Gigi Almsitaf.

In her experience, cookies provide comfort and kindness and that’s why they’re so universally loved. “One day I was sick and a school friend brought me cookies,” says the Syrian native. “That made me feel special. Cookies do that.”

Amazing to think that these small morsels have the power to lift spirits and wash away, if only for a moment, what ails you.

OAKVILLE

298 Kerr St, Oakville (289) 837-1535 kerrstreetcafe.com

f kerrstreetcafe

INGREDIENTS

 1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil

 2 pounds ground turkey

 2 cups onions, finely chopped

 2 tablespoons garlic, chopped

 1 large sweet red pepper, cored, deveined and finely chopped

 1 ½ cups celery, finely chopped

 2 jalapeños, cored, deveined and finely chopped

 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped

 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped

 3 bay leaves, fresh

 3 tablespoons chili powder

 1 tablespoon smoked sweet paprika

 1 tablespoon ground cumin

 4 cups canned diced tomatoes

 2 cups chicken broth, fresh or canned

 ½ tablespoon salt

 ½ teaspoon black pepper, ground

 2 (15-ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained, rinsed

 1 cup frozen corn

 1 lime, zested, juiced

METHOD

1 Heat the oil over medium high heat in a large pot or Dutch oven, add the turkey meat and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Make sure to break up meat by chopping and stirring with the side of a heavy kitchen spoon.

2 Add the onions, garlic, pepper, celery, jalapeño, thyme, oregano, bay leaves and all the spices. Stir to blend well. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes while stirring constantly to prevent burning.

3 Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium low for a slow simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4 Add the drained beans, corn, lime zest, lime juice and continue to cook for another 15 minutes, still stirring occasionally.

5 Remove from heat, and serve with sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream and corn chips.

Guided Tours

Free programming, no registration required.

Courses

The Decorative Plate with Nikola Wojewoda

Sundays, 1–4:00pm, 8 Weeks

September 10–November 5 (no class October 8)

Hand-building Clay Techniques for Beginners with Heather Kuzyk

Tuesdays, 6:30–9:30pm, 6 Weeks

Workshops

Surface Depth Through Layering with Dana Dallal

Wednesdays, 6:30–9:30pm

September 13, 20, and 27

Mythical Maiolica with Lindsay Montgomery

Tuesday, 6:30–9:30pm

September 26 and Wednesday, September 27

Weekly Public Tours

With AGB Gallery Guides

Thursdays and Sundays, 1–1:30pm

Stroller Tours

For more courses & workshops, head to agb.life

Guided discussions and activities for preschoolers and caregivers With Annie Webber, Education Coordinator, AGB

Thursdays, 10–10:30am

ARTbus: Exhibition Tour

With Oakville Galleries

Sunday October 1, 11:30am–5:00pm

Pick-up and drop-off in Toronto (TBD)

Registration required with Oakville Galleries at www.oakvillegalleries.com

*$10 minimum donation for transportation to all galleries.

ImagebyMichaelRouthier.

ImagebyMichaelRouthier.

2022

2022

Brendan Lee Satish Tang, Manga Ormolu Version 4.0r, 2013, Ceramic and mixed media, 16 × 13 × 20 inches. Purchased in part through the

Brendan Lee Satish Tang, Manga Ormolu Version 4.0r, 2013, Ceramic and mixed media, 16 × 13 × 20 inches. Purchased in part through the

40 years of the collection

2022

Brendan Lee Satish Tang, Manga Ormolu Version 4.0r, 2013, Ceramic and mixed media, 16 × 13 × 20 inches. Purchased in part through the

ON NOW UNTIL OCTOBER 8, 2023

June 16 – October 8, 2023

June 16 – October 8, 2023

June 16 – October 8, 2023

Opening Reception, June 15, 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Opening Reception, June 15, 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Opening Reception, June 15, 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Admission to the AGB is free  Gallery Hours

Monday: Closed

Tuesday/Wednesday 10 AM – 9:00 PM

ART GALLERY BURLINGTON | AGB.LIFE

40 years of the collection ART GALLERY

Thursday – Sunday 10 AM – 5:00 PM

40 years of the collection Art

Breathe beauty. Embrace innovation. Let exceptional enter your everyday with the pulse racing performance of Grecale GT.

Breathe beauty. Embrace innovation. Let exceptional enter your everyday with the pulse racing performance of Grecale GT.

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2023 Maserati Grecale GT: all inclusive price starting from $80, 190�

Breathe beauty. Embrace innovation. Let exceptional enter your everyday with the pulse racing performance of Grecale GT.

Cosmopolitan and modern. Italian and timeless. Its sculpted lines fuse essential iconic design elements with an audacious, futuristic outlook. Purity of shape, free of ostentation. Exceptional never follows trends. Embrace a new luxury paradigm made of tradition, innovation, and concrete vision. Visit one of R. Ferri Automotive's Maserati dealerships providing clients with an exceptional ownership experience, based on 19 years of tradition.

2023 Maserati Grecale GT: all inclusive price starting from $80, 190�

Experience Grecale at Maserati of Oakville

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Maserati

maseratiofoakville

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905.847.8329

Cosmopolitan and modern. Italian and timeless. Its sculpted lines fuse essential iconic design elements with an audacious, futuristic outlook. Purity of shape, free of ostentation. Exceptional never follows trends. Embrace a new paradigm made of tradition, innovation, and concrete vision. Visit one of R. Ferri Automotive's Maserati dealerships providing clients with an exceptional ownership experience, based on 19 years of tradition.

Maserati Grecale GT: all inclusive price starting from $80, 190�

*Vehicle