Look Local Oakville & Burlington 11.1

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Welcome to Volume 11 Issue 1 of Look Local! This means we have completed a full ten years of publishing in Oakville and Burlington, and what a ride it has been, especially over the last three years with the pandemic and its aftermath.

Please make sure you read our story on page 30 of this issue, where we share our messages of thanks and some comments from our advertisers and community leaders.

We hope you enjoy this ELEVENTH spring themed issue of our magazine!

Tim Root

publisher

f LOOKLOCAL.CA

c LOOKLOCALOAKBUR looklocal.ca

OAKVILLE & BURLINGTON

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 1

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Tim Root

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jonathon Root

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Beth Walder

EDITOR

Anneliese Lawton

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erin Pepler

Nicole Lischer

Lisa Evans

ART DIRECTORS

Sarah Noble

Jennifer Brewster

Vanessa Chong

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

ith brisk temps and dumps of snow, it doesn't exactly feel like spring is around the corner. Thankfully, local retailers are one step ahead of the game. Colourful window displays, pastel fashions, and fresh seasonal menus have started to trickle in. While snowy weather certainly brings momentary magic, a refreshing vibrancy comes with spring. And I think we're all ready for it.

Before jumping into this month's incredible lineup – I want to congratulate Tim and Jon Root, the founders of Look Local Magazine. Ten years ago, they set out to create a publication that united every aspect of our community: local business owners, outstanding community members, fabulous local food, exceptional events, and worthy charities. Ten years later, with their vision and a talented team, Look Local has become a trusted brand and a beloved resource. Congratulations on a decade, Look Local! Thank you for trusting me as your editor.

As always, this issue is packed with goodies! We've curated a guide to some of the sweetest Maple Syrup Festivals in our Just for Fun feature – and in our Food feature, we may have discovered the secret ingredient in that long-lost family recipe.

You will love learning all about the Oakville Community Foundation and its important role in our community's philanthropic endeavors in our Community feature. And our Special feature was created with our senior community in mind, highlighting resources and support for always living life to the fullest.

Our Home and Garden feature is helpful (as always) in depicting which types of stone suit certain surfaces and spaces in our homes. Plus, we have the officialdetails on Burlington's Comedy Festival (with a four-ticket giveaway hitting our Instagram page soon). And as always: community events, Shop Local, and more.

Enough from me; go dig in!

A CUT ABOVE

How to Choose Stone for Every Room in Your House

by ERIN PEPLER

When it comes to home renovations, natural stone is a popular choice. It doesn't matter if you're replacing those old linoleum floorswith gorgeous granite tiles or turning your bathroom into a marble palace. Something about natural stone feels timeless, elegant, and like a good investment in your home. There are also some spectacular artificialstone options to expand your options even further. Here's how to choose which products to use in different parts of your home — no matter what you end up going with, we're sure it will look amazing.

IN THE KITCHEN

There are a lot of opportunities to add natural or artificialstone products in your kitchen: on the floo, on the counter, in a beautiful backsplash, or even as an accent wall.

Let's start with flooring— you want to look for something durable and low maintenance (especially if you have kids or pets). However, it's important to be realistic about what 'low maintenance' truly means.

"Stone is a natural, porous product," explains Natasha Altena of Eden Tile-It in Burlington. "No matter the application, stone is going to require some level of maintenance."

Granite and marble countertops are classic, but they aren't the only option. An artificialproduct like quartz may provide a similar look and is incredibly durable. Quartz is scratch-resistant, bacteria-resistant, and difficultto damage, but it's not heat-proof. It doesn't require sealing, but it may discolour somewhat over time. Granite requires a bit more maintenance — ideally, you should seal it every year, but it withstands heat well. It's not as strong as quartz, but it's still pretty tough and looks great. And what about marble? It has a stunning aesthetic and is great

for bakers because it remains cool, but it won't withstand heat like granite will (meaning, you can place a hot pan on granite but not marble). Marble also stains more easily than other stones because it's more porous.

You can use just about anything as a backsplash. This might be where you want to splurge on marble if you choose a more costeffective product for your floors and countertops. Altena notes that while marble is one of the softest types of stone, it performs well once sealed. "Marble stands up to the job as a backsplash option — it tends to come in lighter colours and less busy patterning, which seems to be trending still in the industry."

IN THE BATHROOM

Consider porcelain or ceramic tiles if you want something practical and budget-friendly for your bathroom floo. They come in various colours, patterns, and shapes, and you can choose ones with a higher friction rating to avoid slips. Porcelain tiles are often the same colour through multiple layers, so it's easier to hide chips if they happen (the same can't always be said for ceramic tile, however, beautiful they are).

Local Links

1 Eden Tile-It, Burlington tileit.ca

2 Tile Giant, Burlington tilegiantcanada.com

3 The Flooring Gallery, Burlington eurostandardinc.com

4 Deco Tile, Oakville decotile.com

5 Speers Flooring, Oakville speersflooring.com

"For a shower, marble tile and slabs are still popular, although porcelain tile and slabs have come a long way," Altena says. "It would definitelybe less maintenance and more affordable to check out what is available in porcelain options for showers over natural stone, as they can look identical after a proper installation."

EVERYWHERE ELSE

If you're looking for stone tiles for your foyer, hallway, fieplace, or another spot in your house, consider the room's function, the look you're after, and the budget you're working with. You may want to go with a natural stone like granite, limestone, travertine, slate or marble. Look at different finishoptions — honed or polished, for example — and take samples home to see what looks best in the space and lighting you're working with. There are several stores in Oakville and Burlington with some beautiful options!

Getting personalized renovation and product advice from your local tile store is key, but here are a few general tips to remember.

• If you have kids or pets,consider a durable product that reflects your lifestyle

• Consider timeless looks over trends (unless you plan to renovate again in a few years!)

• Think "high-low" to make the most of your budget — splurge somewhere and save somewhere else!

• Ask for advice regarding durability,maintenance,and how each tile option reacts to humidity

Happy shopping!

10 YEARS 10 YEARS CELEBRATING SERVING OUR COMMUNITY

BY TIM AND JON ROOT

Ten years ago, in March 2013, our firstprinted issue of Look Local hit the stands in Oakville and Burlington. It was a time of great excitement and also some trepidation, as we came to understand the magnitude of the task ahead of us.

Fast forward ten years, and we couldn‘t be happier with how the brand has developed. We know we have found a niche in which to serve our advertisers and our readers, and hopefully to make a modest contribution towards improving the lives of people in our wonderful community.

As we reflecton our journey so far, we are full of gratitude. Firstly, thank you to our amazing team. It takes a surprising number of people and a lot of hard work to produce and distribute our product, both in print and digitally. And our team is passionate, creative, and full of enthusiasm each and every day.

Secondly, a HUGE thank you to our advertisers, many of whom came on board in the firstyear, and have been with us ever since. Without them, we would simply not be in business, and we appreciate your support and your advertising investment.

Thirdly, a special word of thanks to our community leaders – the Chambers of Commerce, the BIAs, the Tourism offices our Members of Parliament, and others who have stood by us, embraced our vision, and encouraged us to do better. They have been a huge contributor to our success.

And the last word of thanks goes to you – our readers. We are happy that many of you look out for every issue as soon as it is published, and provide such positive feedback, encouragement and ideas.

As we look out for another ten years, we are excited at our plans and our vision for the future. We believe our new digital tools including our local restaurant gateway and our local shopping application will prove to be useful and valuable in the years to come. Our commitment to our readers and our advertisers is to continue to innovate and improve in order to serve you better. Here’s to the next ten years!

The team at Look Local has been a steadfast partner for the Bronte BIA and its businesses, especially at the height of the pandemic. As a local business itself, it understands what owners need to get their messages out. Here’s to another ten years!

HEALEY Executive Director, Bronte BIA

Congratulations to Look Local on your 10th Anniversary! We very much appreciate our partnership with Look Local for over 5 years. Advertising in this publication has proven to be a great benefit i helping promote our store and shopping locally. Thank youwe look forward to a long-term relationship with Look Local.

JIM, KE VIN & DEAN

THE BOSCO FAMILY, Owners, Bos. & Co. Shoes, Burlington

Congratulations to Tim, Jon, and the wonderful Look Local team on celebrating 10 years! True community champions, we are proud to have you as a member. Thank you for everything you do, and we can’t wait to see what you’ll do next!

FRANCE FOURNIER PRESIDENT AND CEO, Oakville Chamber of Commerce

Happy 10th Anniversary, Look Local!

Thank you for helping us connect with the community.

REBECCA

EDGAR Executive Director,

Visit Oakville and the Visit Oakville Team

MAUREEN

The Burlington Downtown Business Association is proud to recognize and celebrate the team at Look Local for the magazine's milestone 10th Anniversary! Look Local has positioned itself as the lifestyle magazine of choice for our primary market in Burlington Downtown. We value the print and online coverage that our events, animations and small business community enjoy through our partnership with Look Local. From our team to yours - congratulations! We’re certain that the best 10 years are yet to come!

BRIAN DEAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, Burlington Downtown Business Association

I invite you to reach out to my office and we will be happy to assist you with provincial issues.

Congratulations to the Look Local team on 10 years of shining the spotlight on people, businesses and happenings in our own backyard. Thank you for promoting community and helping readers discover great local gems. We LOVE local – and are grateful Look Local does too! Best wishes on your anniversary.

SUSAN PENNIE, Executive Director, Waterdown BIA

Your success has lifted many businesses and I am thankful to be a part of it. Best wishes for continued growth in supporting small businesses and growing the awareness of our community. Happy Anniversary!

I am delighted to offer my congratulations to Tim Root and his team on the 10th anniversary of Look Local magazine. This beautifully illustrated magazine provides information on a wide array of shops, restaurants, and events in our community. I look forward to reading each new edition. A big thank you to all the people who work hard to bring this handy magazine to the people of Oakville.

STEPHEN CRAWFORD MPP, Oakville

CAROL LACHER Owner of Nicety’s, Oakville The Kitchen Store

Congratulations to Jon, Tim, and the team at Look Local for celebrating 10 years in business. It’s always been a pleasure working with Look Local and enjoying the results of our advertising investment with them.

Congratulations Tim and Jonathon on 10 years with Look Local Magazine. Look Local has become a cornerstone in our community to inform and build local businesses and keep our residents informed. Keep up the amazing work!

PAUL LAZZARI,

Congratulations to Look Local on their 10 year Anniversary. In a sea of publications and social media, it’s refreshing to have such a well thought out and classy publication… A home run every issue. We are proud to be a part of the Look Local family….

Congratulations Look Local and Team !!! Your beautifully curated magazine has been a home for my business for many years. Happy 10th Anniversary & Cheers to a decade with many more to come!!

GENERAL MANAGER, Maserati Alfa Romeo of Oakville

JIM HOBBS Owner, Joshua Creek Furniture, Oakville

ROSE LUXTON Owner, Lakeshore Livin’, Bronte

JIM ANDERSON Owner of Anderson Interiors, Burlington

IMPACTFUL GIVING

UNIQUE CHARITABLE OPPORTUNITIES WITH OAKVILLE

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

by ANNELIESE LAWTON

Everyone has something they wish they had more time for in their busy schedule. Time for yourself. Time for your family. Time to give back to your community. Ideally, we all want time to do the things that truly matter. But the more balls we have in the air, the harder it is to find"time" (and when we do findtime, it's usually because something else had to give).

But just like your relationships with yourself and your family, your relationship with your community is deeply personal and important. Togetherness is central to our experience as humans, and that feeling that we are part of something bigger can help give meaning to our lives. Most importantly, it can make a difference in the lives of others.

This is where the Oakville Community Foundation (The Foundation) comes in, offering flxible charitable giving in the Oakville community. The Foundation is a charity and granting organization, and is also a philanthropic solutions provider for donors with all interests and goals, offering donors a personalized use of their donation – now or in the future.

With a local community focus, The Foundation undertakes research in Oakville and Halton, identifying various needs and possible solutions. The relationship with local donors is a true collaboration built on trust. And together, The Foundation and donors work to fund the needs of our community with both resources and support.

The Oakville Community Foundation is truly a charitable umbrella, offering great insight into the diverse needs of our community. Here are some of the many ways The Foundation can help you make a difference:

GIVEOAKVILLE

The Foundation has a vast knowledge of other charitable organizations in our community.

GIVEOakville, hosted every fall, is an annual giving campaign that allows donors to complete their end-of-year giving in one place. The campaign features over 50 charities and enables the public to crowdfund, with 100% of donations going directly to their charity or charities of choice.

FAMILY FUNDS

Setting up a Family Fund is a great way to have your own named Foundation without the admin work. The Foundation will help you set up a long-term or short-term fund and guide you toward achieving your charitable goals. Allow your funds to build up over time, or contribute a one-time lump sum – it's entirely up to you!

SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES AND EDUCATION AWARDS

Post-secondary school can come with a hefty financialburden. By creating a scholarship, bursary, or education award, you can change the lives of youth in the community. The criteria for the scholarship are always in your hands, and you can decide if the funds are gifted as needed or in a lump sum. From there, The Foundation does the heavy lifting, while you rest assured knowing your generosity has helped a student achieve their dreams.

MEMORIAL FUNDS

Honouring a loved one through a Memorial Fund offers a beautiful legacy. The Foundation can quickly initiate and manage these funds in the event of a loved one's passing or to meet one's wishes. With a dedicated link, Memorial Funds can be shared online and set up to readily accept donations worldwide. You can honour your loved one by dedicating these funds to cherished charitable passions or beloved community organizations. The Foundation handles all of the admin work and disbursement of the funds, so you can focus on what matters most.

WOMEN'S GIVING COLLECTIVE

Tap into the collective giving power of incredible local women with the Women's Giving Collective. Members learn about prevalent issues in the community while enjoying a like-minded group's camaraderie, connections, and support. The collective pool of funds makes an impactful difference toward selected causes.

Want to take a next step with your personal relationship with your community? Contact Sarah McPherson, VP of Philanthropy, at sarah@theocf.org to help find wht’s right for you.

Spring Fashion

Spring is just around the corner! Here are some of our favourite local finds.

DTWO CLOTHING

BURLINGTON & DUNDAS

Dress to impress with these black leather mules, complete with a jewel encrusted heel that will let everyone

PURE BOUTIQUE

BURLINGTON

Whether it's the beach or brunch, this bag will be your go-to! Pair it with virtually any outfit and get outside this spring! pureboutique.ca

LANA'S OAKVILLE

In spite of a looooong winter, summer is just around the corner. Get sun ready with a stylish sun hat that pairs well with any outfit. Find it at Lana's in Bronte Village. lanasbronte.com

BOS & CO

BURLINGTON

Slip these on as soon as the snow is gone! Made in Italy, these easy slip-on sandals have a full cork insole that is both soft and comfortable. Find them at Bos & Co. bosandco.com

JUS B GAUZE

BURLINGTON

Look good AND be sun safe. The Aubrey Chic Cheetah top made by Tommy Bahama is moisture wicking and provides up to 30 UPF. jusbgauze.com

MY GIRLFRIEND'S CLOSET

OAKVILLE

Periwinkle Coach purses like this one are among the many amazing finds waiting for you at My Girlfriend's Closet in Bronte Village - follow their Instagram for the latest arrivals!

@mygirlfriendsclosetoakville mygirlfriendsclosetoakville.com

TUNDRA LEATHER

HAMILTON

Bridle leather belts that are hand made in Hamilton! Looking for something custom? Head to Tundra Leather, a hidden gem on King Street East. tundraleather.ca

LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST: SENIOR

LIVING COMMUNITY + CARE OPTIONS

by ANNELIESE LAWTON

Istill remember my childhood home – a red brick, closed-concept, four-bedroom in the heart of River Oaks. I was ten when we moved a few neighbourhoods over – but that home, in particular, holds a very special place in my heart. It was our family home. The home where my grandparents would gather for special occasions and where I made some of my earliest (and most cherished) memories. Since then, I’ve lived in a number of homes. There was the frat-house-esq university home, the move-backin-with-my-parents home, the I-think-I-want-tomarry-this-guy rental home, and all the homes that have followed. Including the family home I live in with my very own babies now. My point: home means something different to everyone…because the place you call home varies throughout each stage of your life.

While I’ve been moving homes as I’ve moved through each stage of my life (bringing along the second-hand furniture that comes with it), my parents have been adapting their home life to the changes they’ve experienced, too. From our family home to their current downsized home to what comes next, there has been a home-sweet home that accommodates each stage of life’s journey. But as we’ve learned through my grandparents and now my parents, finding a home accommodting a senior’s needs can be challenging.

PALERMO VILLAGE RETIREMENT RESIDENCE

HERITAGE PLACE

VIVA RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES OAKVILLE

Danny Gehchan, the marketing coordinator of V!VA Retirement Communities, says, “While independence and age-in-place can be desirable, delaying your move to a retirement community should be based on a simpler question, will you be happier in your home or a retirement community?” At the root of it, a retirement community is a lifestyle change that can offer resources, opportunities, and social outlets specificallycatered to seniors. Aging-in-place can become quickly lonely and overwhelming if you don’t have access to support or the ability (or motivation) to take care of a household. Maintaining a lawn, shoveling snow, and navigating stairs can become increasingly difficult Retirement communities often offer the best of both worlds.

With larger-than-average suites with full kitchens and full-size appliances, residents of Queens Avenue Retirement Residence in Oakville can cook and entertain in their suite or enjoy a meal with friends in the dining room. Residents can access many essential services without going off-site with an onsite beauty salon, laundry services, and pharmacy. And that’s really the beauty of retirement communities –the cohesive experience of home life, social life, and medical support.

Local Links

While some retirement communities only provide basic care, others like V!VA, Queens Avenue, and Oakville Estates Retirement Residence (located seconds from Oakville Hospital) offer full-scale support. “As an age-in-place residence, we provide care for IL and AL (independent living and assisted living) right up to palliative level, with a great mix of people ages 70-100+,” says Janette West, executive director of Oakville Estates. With experienced staff supporting memory care and amenities, including an on-site theatre, restaurant,

1 Downsizing Solutions downsizingsolutions.ca

2 V!VA Retirement Communities vivalife.ca

3 Oakville Estates Retirement Residence allseniorscare.com

4 Queens Avenue Retirement Residence, Oakville queensavenueretirement.com

5 Heritage Place, Burlington heritage-place.ca

6 Palermo Village Retirement Residence, Oakville verveseniorliving.com

bistro, bar, fitnesscentre, billiards and games room, chapel, and more, residents will feel comforted with access to various lifestyles and needs.

Touring prospective retirement communities is one of the best ways to get a feel for their atmosphere. But as with any move – especially when downsizing – it can come with mixed emotions. Services are available to help make the transition as smooth as possible, and people like Mary Dilly, owner of Downsizing Solutions, can help you sort through every last spoon, post-it note, and picture (and prepare your home for sale). Mary and her team really take care of everything, from creating a floor plan for your new home to organizing documents and facilitating movein day.

Honouring your needs is one of the most important considerations as you move into this next stage of life. While every senior is motivated for different reasons, there’s no doubt you or your loved one will find a deep appreciation for the lifestyle and hospitality that retirement communities offer.

AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO EXCEPTIONAL CARE

Welcome to Oakville Estates, now under construction on Hospital Gate right beside the new Oakville hospital. Featuring a mix of lifestyle options ranging from independent condo-style to assisted living suites, this luxury community has been created to ensure that residents maintain ongoing quality of life throughout the years.

• Choose from a variety of beautifully designed 1 or 2 bedroom suites, each with a 4-piece bathroom, air conditioning, heating, and a kitchenette. Elegant and comfortable, all suites are equipped with the latest safety features to meet the needs of older adults.

• Take advantage of “age in place” living, with a true continuum of care options, from independent to assisted living, and secure memory care.

• No shortage of wellness and exercise options, including an indoor pool, an indoor walking track, a fitnessand yoga centre, and a billiard and games room.

• With 33 full kitchen suites, you can prepare your own meals in comfort, or visit the onsite restaurant, bistro or bar. All meals are prepared in-house by culinary teams led by Red Seal chefs.

• Make new friends and indulge in memorable experiences and choose from an excellent range of activities to suit all interests.

• There is even an onsite theatre, chapel, hair salon and pet washing station, plus underground parking!

Oakville Estates is operated by All Seniors Care, one of the oldest, most respected and accomplished names in the retirement residence field

V!VA RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES WANTS YOU TO BE HAPPIER HERE™

Located on Sixth Line just north of Dundas, and nestled alongside a residential enclave, V!VA Oakville is close to convenient shopping, restaurants and the hospital. The 6-storey retirement community has 151 suites, with studio, 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom + den, and 2 bedroom suites available.

At V!VA Oakville, you are more than just a resident – you belong to a select group with a passion for active living and the finerthings in life, such as sophisticated design, premium amenities, healthy dining, and unparalleled service.

Retirement Communities , life is activities, excursions, amazing heated saltwater pool, bistro-café, underground parking and more – you can cake and eat it, too!

Appointment

• Enjoy 3 meals a day Anytime Dining with meals prepared fresh daily from a Red Seal certifiedChef. And there’s no need to eat alone with the friends you are sure to make. Plus, there’s fresh coffee, delicious teas, and snacks in our café throughout the day.

oakville@vivalife.ca,

• Participate in daily fitnessactivities in our gym and saltwater pool to keep you in good physical health. Plus, enjoy yearround golf in our V!VAlinks Golf Simulator.

• Take part in a rich social life with plenty of activities in the Community and fun excursions to interesting events and places.

• There are wellness and medical services in-house with doctors, nursing staff, personal support workers, and regular visits by dentists, chiropodists, and more.

• The safety and security of our Retirement Communities with 24/7 staffingand emergency call buttons means help is seconds away.

Having the discussion with elderly parents about the right time to enjoy the benefitsof a retirement community should be easier when you simply ask, “Will you be happier here?”.

COMEDY FESTIVAL

BY ANNELIESE

There's nothing better than laughing until your belly aches – and the comics at the Burlington Comedy Festival will make you do just that. A hilarious celebrity line-up of seven comedians will hit fivestages over four days, promising a unique experience with every show.

Opening night kicks off on Thursday, April 20th, with three-time Canadian Comedy Award nominee Dave Hemstad at the Pearle Hotel. In addition to his CTV "Comedy Now" special and performances at the Just

for Laughs Festival Gala in Montreal, Dave has many acting credits to his name. He starred in the Showcase comedy series "Almost Heroes" and is a regular on CBC's smash hit The Debaters  (and a contributing writer on the CBC series "Still Standing").

On Friday, April 21st, guests can enjoy dinner and a show at one of two intimate pop-up events featuring Sandra Battaglini, Rob Bebenek, Arthur Simeon, and Zabrina Douglas. Doors open at 7 pm at The Block & Co., followed by an 8:30 pm show at Paradiso. Enjoy your favourite dish and drinks while special guest and celebrity magician Billy Kidd wows. Tickets are limited!

The "big" show hits the stage Saturday and Sunday when Canadian actor, writer, and comedian Jon Dore headlines at The Art Gallery of Burlington. Jon's television credits include a memorable guest star role on the CBS Emmy Award-winning series, How I Met Your Mother, and a lead role on ABC's How to Live with Your Parents. Jon has appeared on Conan, Inside Amy Schumer, Hart of Dixie, and his own special on Comedy Central.

Need help deciding which show to attend? Visit Burlingtoncomedy.com/ shows to finda clip of each comic. Doors open for all shows at 7 p.m. (except Paradiso, which opens at 8:30), leaving plenty of time to explore Burlington's beautiful downtown.

The Burlington Comedy Festival has your back for laugh-out-loud, mature content (perfect for a night out with friends or a date night).

For a full list of complete acts and to buy tickets online, please visit:  www.burlingtoncomedy.com

MAR 23

GLO DTO : Playground of Lights

Wip Wap is coming to Towne Square in Downtown Oakville from March 4 to 23! This interactive art installation features luminous musical seesaws that invite visitors to co-create when the lights and music intensify as the planks swing up and down. Adults and kids of all ages are invited to play daily from 12 PM to 9 PM.

Towne Square

166 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville Oakvilledowntown.com

MAR 17

Nickel Brook St. Paddy's Bash

Spend your St. Patrick’s Day with your pals at Nickel Brook’s NEW Burlington tap room. Enjoy great beers, even better company, and live music from The Knads. Grab your ticket in advance to secure your spot!

Nickel Brook Brewery 3426 Mainway, Burlington Nickelbrook.com

PHOTO CREDIT: ANDRE PATTENDEN

MAR 17-18

Hamilton Food + Drink Fest

Hamilton’s fun and delicious culinary, wine, spirit, and beer expo is back! Experience an exciting variety of Ontario VQA and international wines, spirits, craft beers, gourmet local food, specialty coffees, teas, decadent desserts as well as unique spices, sauces, and marinades. Also, enjoy entertaining live musical acts and fun informative cooking demonstrations all in one convenient and central location!

Hamilton Convention Centre

1 Summer’s Lane, Hamilton @foodanddrinkfest

MAR 19

Friends of the Oakville Public Library Book Sale

Support the Oakville Public Library and grab a few books, too! The Friends of the Oakville Public Library holds book sales throughout the year. Thousands of donated titles spanning all genres are offered for purchase. These sales have generated thousands of dollars that have supported numerous library programs and services. Proceeds from book sales help OPL to expand library services, programs, and spaces.

Oakville Public Library

Central Branch

120 Navy Street, Oakville Opl.ca

MAR 25

Nickel Brook Comedy Night

In their new location, Nickel Brook’s Comedy Night is back with an amazing lineup! Featuring some of Ontario’s best comedians including; Reese Turner, Dan Brennan, and Jen Reeves. Share some laughs and some pints before Jason Allen (Canada’s hottest rising star) closes out the show!

Nickel Brook Brewery

3426 Mainway, Burlington Nickelbrook.com

MAR 25-26

Visit with the Easter Bunny

Hop on over to Joseph Brant Museum on March 25 & 26 for a Visit with the Easter Bunny! Book a 5-min time slot (6 family members maximum). Henry’s will be on-site taking professional photos and providing a “Free Instant 8×20 Print” voucher. After their visit, children can take part in an egg hunt around the Museum. Tickets include Museum admission, a visit with the Easter Bunny, a take-home craft, and Easter popcorn!

Joseph Brant Museum

1240 North Shore Boulevard, Burlington Museumsofburlington.ca

APR 2

Gluten-Free Goodness Expo

Gluten-free foodies

– there’s a food market just for you! Returning to the Ancaster Fairgrounds for their Spring 2023 Market, the Gluten-Free Goodness Expo is better than ever! Sample, sip, and shop gluten-free goodness from over 50 vendors. Come hungry and bring your friends!

Ancaster Fairgrounds

630 Trinity Road, Jerseyville Gfgoodnessexpo.ca

MAR 25

Happy Hour for LGBTQIA2 + Women and Their Friends

Hosted by Fruit Salad – an organization creating safe environments for all to come and feel comfortable with who they are – is hosting a happy hour event at Collective Arts Brewing! All 2SLGBTQIA+ women and gender non-conforming people over the age of 19+ are invited to enjoy food and great music from 8 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. Partial proceeds from ticket sales will go to Speqtrum Hamilton. Collective Arts Brewing

207 Burlington Street East, Hamilton @fruitsaladhamiltonedition

APR 2

World Autism Inclusion Day

We Rock the Spectrum is ready to celebrate everything that makes our special needs families extraordinary! Join them for free open play in their inclusive gym on World Autism Inclusion Day. This event is for our special needs families only (and their siblings). Register online to secure your spot.  We Rock the Spectrum

245 Wyecroft Road Unit # 3, Oakville Werockthespectrumoakville.ca

APR 2

Burlington Teen Tour Band Concert

Canada’s musical ambassadors are back for their annual Spring Concert at BPAC. The Burlington Teen Tour Band will have just returned from their St. Patrick’s Day Tour of Ireland and will be excited to perform in their hometown! Along with the full ensemble, the always favourite features by the Colour Guard and the Drumline will take centre stage, along with special guests, The Burlington Junior Redcoats. Two great concerts to choose from –2:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

Burlington Performing Arts Centre

440 Locust Street, Burlington Burlingtonpac.ca

APR 5

Walt’s World

Join the Burlington Student Theatre’s Little Performer, Junior, and Intermediate levels as they journey through an anthology honouring the Disney legacy, from classic to contemporary. From “It’s a Small World” to “Friend Like Me,” from Cruella de Vil to Ursula, and from Captain Hook to Jafar, there’s something for everyone!

Burlington Student Theatre

Burlington Performing Arts Centre

440 Locust Street, Burlington Burlingtonpac.ca

APR 5

Wellness Through Birding With Bob Bell

After a bizarre set of symptoms, Bob Bell was eventually diagnosed with Lyme Disease. In his talk in collaboration with Burlington Green, Bob shares how his eventual diagnosis led him to discover the wonderful, therapeutic benefits o birds and birding. Register for this free event at burlingtongreen.org

Virtual Burlingtongreen.org

APR 5

Movies for Mommies  Parents

and babies!

Enjoy a matinee movie in a baby-friendly cinema so you can have your popcorn and eat it too! All Movies for Mommies events are nursing-friendly and include a changing table within the theatre, with dim lights, and reduced sound. Amazing door prizes, guest speakers, awesome samples, and pre-show events make this a perfect mommy meet-up!

Film.ca

171 Speers Road, Unit 25, Oakville Moviesformommies.com

THE SWEET HISTORY OF

Canadian MAPLE SYRUP

by NICOLE LISCHER

Each February or March, with lined boots and knit mittens, Canadians head to the sugar bush in search of something sweet. Sure, the photo ops are great - but at the heart of these experiences, there's a harvesting history with Indigenous roots.

The story has it that Chief Woksis of the Iroquois found “the sweet” (syrup) when he threw his tomahawk at a maple tree in the cold of winter. The next day, the sun warmed the sap inside the tree, and syrup sprung from the hole. European settlers began to adopt the practice from Indigenous communities in 1557 and were shown how to harvest the sap, boil it, and turn it into syrup. This sweet staple was the initial form of sugar in North America until sugar cane became available in 1875.

Since then, maple syrup has become a beloved staple on Canadian breakfast tables. It's also become a significant Canadian export, with 60 million kilograms exported to 50 countries in 2020 (valued at $515 million). Ounce for ounce, maple syrup is worth more than oil in Canada, with Canada supporting 75% of the world’s demand.

As with any product of value, there runs a risk. In 2012, a suspected insider stole 9,571 barrels of maple syrup valued at $18.7 million from the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers (FPAQ). "The Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist," as it's become known, made global headlines, even making it to Netflix in the documentary Dity Money.

The incident shed light on the value and importance of maple syrup in Canadian culture and our economy. It's a reminder that even the most unexpected things can hold value.

At this time of year as the winter thaw begins, across many regions, you'll discover maple syrup festivals of activities and educational opportunities for the whole family. And with additional knowledge of its history and value to our economy, we're sure you'll findthe experience even more special.

BRONTE CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK

1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville Ontarioparks.com/park/brontecreek

Fresh Ontario maple syrup begins flowingat Bronte Creek Provincial Park on the firstSaturday in March when the park's annual Maple Syrup Festival gets underway. Enjoy a guided tour of Maple Lane, where 1890s costumed interpreters demonstrate how to tap maple trees and make maple syrup and maple sugar. View artifacts in the maple museum or tour the 100-year-old Spruce Lane Farmhouse. Be sure to browse through the maple products and souvenirs available in the Maple Gift Shoppe and pick up a bottle of syrup to take home. Hop on a wagon that will take you to a heated pancake house where you can enjoy fresh, hot pancakes with pure maple syrup and sausages, served up throughout the festival hours.

Dr. Andrew Moore

Another great local option is Maple Town at Mountsberg, hosted by Conservation Halton.

MAPLE TOWN MOUNTSBERG

2259 Milborough Town Line, Campbellville conservationhalton.ca

This is the sweetest time of year at Conservation Halton! The Mountsberg sugarbush has been producing maple magic for over 150 years and educating the public for over 40 years. Your 2-hour reservation includes access to Maple Town, gift shops, Pancake House, Farm Animal Barn, Raptor Centre Wildlife Walkway, Natural Playground, and park trails. An optional Guided Tour featuring tree tapping and syrup samples may be added (additional per person fee applies).

Just north of Halton Hills, in the Town of Erin, you'll findElliot Tree Farm and their annual Maple Syrup Experience. It's also worth a visit!

WEEKEND MAPLE SYRUP EXPERIENCE ELLIOT TREE FARM

9467 East Garafraxa Erin Townline, Hillsburgh elliottreefarm.ca

Beginning on Family Day and running through to April 9th, you can immerse yourself in the maple syrup experience at Elliot Tree farm. Enjoy an all-you-can eat pancake breakfast or brunch followed by a maple treat sampling in their tree cellar. Follow up with a walk through the sugar bush, where you can try sap and explore buckets. Tickets are available through their website.

The next time you pour maple syrup over your breakfast, take a moment to appreciate the rich and unique history behind Canada's liquid gold!

DISCOVER THE BEST LOCAL

BRUNCH . PUBS . FINE DINIING

THE SECRET INGREDIENT IS

CINNAMON

by LISA EVANS

If you've been looking for that "secret ingredient" in a recipe handed down by previous generations – try cinnamon. It's the one spice you're likely to findin everyone's pantry and a key ingredient used in dishes worldwide. From desserts to savoury dishes (even ones with meat), it's hard to findanother spice with this type of versatility... and one with such a unique history.

Once considered more valuable than gold, cinnamon was a highly valued spice in ancient trade. Ancient Egyptians were the firstto use cinnamon in cooking but also viewed it as a prestigious gift for pharaohs and used the spice during embalming rituals.

Sourced from the Cinnamomum tree (a variety of evergreen), native to Sri Lanka and south India, cinnamon is most often used these days in cooking and baking. The world's insatiable demand for cinnamon has resulted in different varieties of the spice being grown in countries including Myanmar, Indonesia, China, Vietnam, and some countries in the West Indies and South America. Workers score and peel the outer bark of the trees with a few simple tools during harvest. Large pieces of bark are peeled, dried, and ground into powder, while smaller twigs and shoots dry into familiar curled sticks.

There's no doubt this spice packs a powerful punch. Sprinkling it in desserts, seasonal drinks, and even main dishes, our culinary community uses it well. We've rolled our way through Oakville and Burlington to discover some of the best cinnamon-inspired dishes - check them out:

CINNAHOLIC

259 LAKESHORE ROAD EAST, OAKVILLE

cinnaholic.com

All hail the cinnamon roll. With over 20 flavoursof frosting and a variety of toppings, Cinnaholic delivers the optimal cinnamon experience. Design your own roll, or choose from Cinnaholic's suggested combinations –like the S'mores Cookie Roll, with gooey chocolate chip cookie rolled in graham cracker crumbs and topped with marshmallow, or the Candied Almond Roll, topped with marshmallows, pretzels, and homemade candied almonds.

COBBS BAKERY

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS IN BURLINGTON AND OAKVILLE

cobbsbread.com

Cinnamon is the star in two of Cobbs' best-selling baked goods. Their Cinnamon Scone is filledwith generous cinnamon flaes and topped with cinnamon sugar; warmed up, it's a great treat with your morning coffee. And their Classic Cinnamon Bun is a must-have with your Sunday breakfast. Unwind the spirals of sticky dough to reveal an ooey gooey cinnamon sugar-glazed centre!

CINNAHOLIC

COBBS BAKERY

KELLY'S BAKE SHOPPE

401 BRANT STREET, BURLINGTON

kellysxo.com

Plant-based and dusted with cinnamon, Kelly's Bake Shoppe makes a must-try old-fashioned snickerdoodle cookie. Their Morning Glory Muffinwith sweet potato, carrots, cranberries, and a cinnamon cream cheese fillingalso makes a great morning treat.

PUR & SIMPLE

1940 APPLEBY LINE UNIT 22, BURLINGTON

350 DUNDAS STREET EAST, OAKVILLE

pursimple.com

Another cinnamon twist on a breakfast classic! Pur & Simple's Carole's CinnaCakes are cinnamon swirl pancakes topped with icing glaze, caramel, and whipped cream. Pair with a mimosa or freshly brewed coffee for breakfast or brunch.

COOP WICKED CHICKEN

DUCK DONUTS

OKO BAGELS

PUR & SIMPLE

COOP WICKED CHICKEN

370 BRANT STREET, BURLINGTON thecoopwickedchicken.com

While famous for its fried chicken, The Coop has cinnamon all figued out - and their Cinnamon funnel cake isn't exactly what it seems. Consisting of fries topped with cinnamon sugar and accompanied by vanilla ice cream, have it for lunch or dessert - all of the components are there.

OKO BAGELS

499 CORNWALL ROAD, OAKVILLE okobagels.com

Oakville's hot spot for Montreal-style wood-fied bagels handcrafts a perfect cinnamon sugar bagel. Pair with a wide selection of flavoued cream cheese (Canadian Maple makes a good match) or other toppings like Nutella or peanut butter.

DUCK DONUTS

5010 PINEDALE AVENUE UNIT 1001A, BURLINGTON

Duckdonuts.com

Cinnamon bun or donut? You don't have to choose! Burlington's newest donut establishment, Duck Donuts, serves a Cinnamon Bun Donut made with cinnamon sugar and vanilla icing. The best part: it's made fresh on-site, just for you.

Cinnamon… it really is everywhere. Inspired by her Nonna, our editor mixes a little into her ricotta cheese when she makes lasagna or ravioli. It’s a basic ingredient in a traditional Greek moussaka. And for me, I sprinkle a light dusting on top of my coffee grounds. My guests always ask, "What do you put in your coffee?".

My secret ingredient? Cinnamon.  How do you use cinnamon? Why not share your recipes with us on Instagram @looklocal.ca ?

KELLY'S BAKE SHOPPE

EASTER COOKIES

Have fun making these at home in time for Easter, or you can always pick some up from Anna Cakes in Downtown Oakville.

Tip

You can prepare this dough with almond flvour, ginger flvour or any other flvour.

BISCUITS INGREDIENTS

· Flour 350 g

· Butter 150 g

· Icing sugar 100g

· Egg 1 large

· Vanilla 1 tsp

· Salt 1/2 tsp

ROYAL ICING INGREDIENTS

· Icing sugar 2 cups

· Meringue powder 2/5 tbsp

· Water 1/4 cup

METHOD FOR BISCUITS

1 Mix flou, icing sugar, salt and soft butter in the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Beat on slow-medium speed until the ingredients become breadcrumbs - about 4 to 5 minutes.

2 Add egg and vanilla and mix.

3 Put the ingredients in a bowl and knead a little until you get a smooth and uniform dough that does not stick to your hands. Put the dough in the refrigerator for a quarter of an hour.

4 Spread the dough between two pieces of plastic wrap to an approximate thickness of 3 mm and press it into shapes with your cookie cutters.

5 Lift the cookie dough shapes and bake them on an ungreased baking tray.

6 Bake for 12-14 minutes at 350 F or until they change colour slightly.

Tip

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth so that the ingredients do not dry out.

ROYAL ICING METHOD:

1 Mix icing sugar and meringue powder.

2 Add water and stir to mix completely

3 Add food colour of your choice and stir.

Caroline Monnet: Holding Up the Sky

January 13 – April 23, 2023

In this survey of new and recent works, multidisciplinary artist Caroline Monnet centers geometries, especially the cube, to draw attention to how different spatial relationships condition the way that we live and think. Monnet’s practice moves between textiles, photography, sculpture, and film, drawing from her Anishinaabe and French heritages.

Spark! From the Collections

January 14 – April 23, 2023

This collaborative exhibition between the Burlington Handweavers and Spinners Guild and the Gallery features new textile works inspired by ceramic pieces belonging to the AGB’s permanent collection, creating a catalyst to connect craft and contemporary art mediums.

All Guilds Show/23

May 6 – June 4, 2023

Opening Reception

May 6th 1-3:00pm

Each year the AGB hosts an annual exhibition celebrating the guilds who make, learn, share, and teach in our spaces, including the Burlington Fine Arts Association, Burlington Handweavers and Spinners Guild, Latow Photographers Guild, Burlington Potters Guild, Burlington Hooking Craft Guild, and Burlington Sculptors and Carvers.