Cover photo by Michelle Ward October 2024
© Best Version Media
Welcome to October, Millcroft! It’s no secret that autumn is my very favourite season, bringing with it shorter days, earlier evenings, and no humidity! Who can resist?
Whether its picking apples, attending festivals or taking part in local events, October provides numerous opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy a variety of events that are sure to make the month one to remember.
October is also all about Canadian Thanksgiving and, of course, Halloween! There are also outdoor nature hikes, apple picking and hay rides, day trips, changing leaves, bright blue skies and enjoying everything this great time of year has to offer. Just be sure to get outside and enjoy it all.
This month you can also learn about what it takes to be a Best Version Media publisher, with tons of useful personal information from Kiley Boyd, who has plenty of advice on how to contribute to the community via a wonderful magazine.
Thank you to everyone for being a wonderful part of the Neighbours of Millcroft community. Say a big hello to autumn, and I’ll meet you back here in November.
DeAnne Bell Designer Allison Dempsey Content Coordinator
Contributing Photographer
ADVERTISING
Chad Quates | cquates@bestversionmedia.com | 414-930-5477
FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS
Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to adempsey@bestversionmedia.com.
Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month, two months before publication.
HOA SUBMISSION INFO
Are you on the board for your condo/townhome association? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to your residents. We create customized homeowners/ratepayers association sections at no cost to HOA/RPA or the residents.
THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS
Councillor Angelo Bentivegna, Ruby T., Amanda Froment; Stella T., Daniel Durst, Allison Dempsey, Content Coordinator.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Emergency: 911
Police Department: 905-825-4777
Fire Department: 905-637-8207
INTERESTED IN SPONSORING A SECTION OF THIS MAGAZINE?
Content Sponsorships are a great way to advertise your business alongside industry-specific content.
City of Burlington: 905-335-7600
Tansley Woods Public Library: 905-336-5583
Tansley Woods Community Centre: 905-332-1996
Halton District School Board: 905-335-3663
Halton District Catholic School Board: 905-632-6300
Jeff Scharf
jscharf@bestversionmedia.com 705-207-1700
CONTACT: Visit www.bestversionmedia.com to learn more about our advertising opportunities.
reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2024 Best Version Media Canada. All rights reserved.
Chad Quates Publisher
RubyThiessen
HERITAGE PLACE
PHARMACY EXPERT
Dale Regis, BSc.Phm.RPh., Millcroft Pharmacy 905-335-6363 | millcroftpharmacy@gmail.com millcroftpharmacy.com
DENTISTRY EXPERT
Thelam Nguyen, DDS, FICO, Tansley Woods Dentistry 905-315-9599 | info@tansleywoodsdentistry.com
INSURANCE EXPERT
Daniel Durst, Desjardins Insurance 905-584-7198 | daniel@danieldurst.com danieldurst.com
MORTGAGE EXPERT
Anthony Spadafora, Mountainview Mortgage 905-631-5269 | anthony@mountainviewmortgage.ca anthonyspadafora.ca
RETIREMENT/ASSISTED LIVING EXPERT
Heritage Place 905-315-2580 | heritage-place.ca
GOLF EXPERT
Jason Faubert, The Golfer’s Academy 905-335-5858 | info@thegolfersacademy.ca thegolfersacademy.ca
MEDICAL SPA
BVM EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Stand out from the competition and become an Expert Contributor for your industry!
CONTACT:
Jeff Scharf jscharf@bestversionmedia.com 705-207-1700
Visit www.bestversionmedia.com to learn more about our advertising opportunities.
info@cornerstonedentistry.ca www.cornerstonedentist.ca
Dr. Ralhan, Oak Park Dental 905-257-3368 | 2530 Sixth Line, Suite 5 oakparkdentist.caa patientinfo@oakparkdental.ca www.oakparkdentist.ca
Dr. Ralhan
© Best Version Media
Five Misconceptions About Life Insurance
By Daniel Durst, Desjardins Insurance Agent
Alife insurance policy is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your family when you pass away — but it can be a complicated topic. That’s why I’m here to help you understand how it can protect you and your loved ones, so that finances do not become an added stressor during such a difficult time.
Here are five common misconceptions about life insurance and what you should know:
1. If you don’t have kids or a spouse, you don’t need it
If you unexpectedly pass away, and you’re not protected with life insurance, your estate may have to cover the expenses that you leave – including medical bills and personal debts. Even if you don’t have kids, your partner or spouse would be left to sort out these expenses in your absence. It’s best to have at least a basic life insurance policy, to help you pay for any essential bills.
2. Life insurance is too expensive
Life insurance comes in a range of coverages and affordable options. Term premiums are usually reasonably priced and worth considering if permanent life insurance doesn’t meet your needs or budget. Term insurance provides coverage for a certain period of time, and many policies offer the option to upgrade to a permanent life insurance policy later.
3. Your coverage from work is enough
You may need more coverage than what your employer provides – if, for example, you have dependants or a mortgage. Additionally, if your employer switches insurance providers, your policy could change without notice.
4. Young and healthy people don’t need life insurance
The younger you are, the cheaper life insurance is likely to be, because you’re less likely to need it – but accidents can still happen. Younger people tend to engage in riskier recreational activities, including sports, which can lead to unexpected injuries1. Plus, you may still have expenses, such as your student loans and other debts that your estate will have to sort out in your absence.
5. I should get the same life insurance policy as my friend or neighbour
Your individual needs, goals and lifestyles may be very different from those around you, so it’s important to tailor your policy to your unique needs. As you go through different life stages, your financial needs can change – and so can your life insurance needs.
Interested in learning more about how to protect yourself with life insurance? Give me a call to discuss your coverage options, or for more helpful tips, visit our blog at desjardins.com/en/tips.html.
Daniel Durst Insurance and Financial Services Ltd.
Daniel Durst, Agent
5100 South Service Rd, Suite 48 Burlington ON 905-847-1898
danieldurst.com
column, written and published by Desjardins Agent
presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any insurance products. These tips are provided for information and prevention purposes only and Desjardins Insurance cannot be held liable for them.
1 - Riskier lifestyle factors may reduce insurability or increase the cost of insurance. Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company, underwriter of life insurance and living benefits products. Certain conditions, limitations and exclusions may apply.
Desjardins®, Desjardins Insurance®, all trademarks containing the word Desjardins, as well as related logos are trademarks of the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, used under licence.
your family’s future with
My top priority is protecting what matters most to you. That’s why I’ll take the time to understand you and your family’s needs – because, with tailored life insurance, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your family’s future is in good hands. Contact me today
This
Daniel Durst
Daniel Durst, Agent 5100 South Service Rd Suite 48
COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY: Meet BVM Publisher Kiley Boyd
By Allison Dempsey • Photos by Michelle Ward
Kiley Boyd has embraced many titles over the years, including musician, athlete, world traveller, mom, and also publisher, specifically of Neighbours of Scenicview and Neighbours of Kirkendall + Durand, community magazines that aim to share interesting and heartfelt stories of families, couples, and singles, along with businesses and a variety of events to local residents.
A dual citizen of the U.S. and Canada, Kiley moved to Canada on July 1, 2001, and as of this year, has officially lived in Canada longer than the States.
“I lived four years in Manitoba on a Canadian military artillery base, while the rest of my time has been in Burlington, Ancaster and Hamilton,” she says. “My first Canadian job was at a Manitoba golf course, and I loved it! As long as the coffee was ready at 5:45 a.m., everyone was happy and it was such a serene place,” adding that her first Canadian paycheque went towards purchasing her first puppy.
Following that, she worked at the Keystone Centre in Brandon, Manitoba, for three years as an Event Manager for everything from horse/cattle shows, weddings, OHL VIP events, and business
and political conferences, to major sports events like the Scotts Tournament of Hearts.
“It was wild!” she says. “It was so much fun and I loved the variety and all the people I met.”
On the family side of her life, Kiley met her husband 24 years ago on a European Contiki tour bus — they’re celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary this month — and she’s a mother of two children; Jack who is 14 and 11-year-old Katie.
“And I can’t forget my fur baby, Casey a.k.a. KC, who turns nine this month.”
A resident of Scenic Woods since 2011, when her son was two years old, Kiley remembers worrying they had “made a big mistake.”
“Where are all the kids? I made it my mission to walk the neighbourhood and go to the park daily, hoping to meet young families like ours.”
It didn’t take long.
“The neighbourhood began changing, with more and more young families moving in,” she says. “Once we started pre-school and sports, we found a gold mine.
Shortly after, we expanded our family to four and my son started school at Mountview, one of the best-kept secrets in Hamilton”
Kiley also got involved in her community by volunteering at the school, joining the Parent Council and PIC, and becoming the hockey/ baseball/soccer team manager or coach. She and a neighbour decided to start the Scenic Woods Facebook page to help bring residents together to organize playdates, pass on items they no longer needed and share information.
“It was always a dream of mine for our kids to have a neighbourhood like the one I grew up in where families got together, helped each other and grew together. Scenic Woods provided this for us.”
At the time, while working at an agency in Mississauga, she was able to find a new job in Oakville, a little bit closer to home, but it was still a challenge to get one child to school, one to daycare and herself to work by 8:30 a.m.
“But it's what we did until 2014 when everything changed,” Kiley says. “I was in an accident on the QEW, where I broke my lumbar, got a concussion, and injured my neck, left shoulder and arm.”
She and her daughter were lucky, however, because despite someone crossing the HOV lane, blowing out her rear tire and sending their car across three lanes of traffic during rush hour, no one else hit them.
“Everyone stopped. We were so very lucky — my daughter was completely fine, even flirting with the firemen who arrived on the scene to help us. But that’s when we made a change in our lives.”
The couple decided she would stay home while he worked in Toronto.
“No more rat race. No more rushing home to cook, bathe and tuck the kids into bed. No more paying babysitting and daycare fees,” Kiley says. “We re-prioritized. Sure it was tough, but we adjusted and soon realized it was no tougher than all the hustle and bustle!”
In 2020, with both of her kids in school, Kiley decided to return to work. I saw an ad for a Publisher in the Hamilton/Ancaster area.
“Honestly, I had no idea what a ‘publisher’ was but thought a conversation can’t hurt! Little did I know, it was the perfect opportunity
for me. Essentially, this job is a combination of who I am: a strategic marketer and a community-involved person. I couldn’t believe such a position existed. And so, four years ago, I embarked on this journey to serve my community and help local businesses.”
BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER: THE ROLE OF A BVM PUBLISHER
“Best Version Media’s tagline, Bringing People Together, " meant much more during the pandemic. It also meant it was a very difficult time to build a business, but I cared so much about our area and committed to making it happen.”
Kiley found like-minded business owners who believed in the power and influence of the community. They partnered and through their
© Best Version Media
charter sponsorships, Neighbours of Scenicview’s inaugural edition was delivered to the neighbourhood mailboxes in August 2021.
Last month, the magazine celebrated its third anniversary.
“It brings me so much joy to reflect back on all of the stories we have shared, pets who have become celebrities, community events, recipes, activities and ideas.”
And connections are definitely being made.
“By nature, we’re all storytellers and by sharing, we learn, we develop compassion and understanding,” says Kiley. “We appreciate our differences. We embrace new things.”
A story about Kyle Scott helped a local family, who had just received the diagnosis that their two-year-old has Cerebral Palsey; COVID Elvis, who could no longer perform in long-term care facilities, started hosting concerts in the area parks, raising more than 100,000 pounds of food for local food banks, proving one person CAN make a difference. Or Craig and Elizabeth, who are encouraging all to “embrace difference” working towards making our communities a more “inclusive place for everyone.” Vicki shared her story about her ancestors and their commitment to doing better for their family, calling Hamilton home after leaving Vietnam. And our very own journalist, editor and author Joyce Grant who, with the help of the Locke St. branch of the Hamilton Library won the Hamilton Literary Award by the Hamilton Arts Council, and was honoured by the Global Youth & News Media.
“EVERYONE has a story. Stories of triumph, love, heroism, and compassion.”
In the fall of 2023, Neighbours of Kirkendall + Durand’s publisher role became available and Kiley jumped at the opportunity to help highlight the community she enjoys spending time in.
“As a family, we have spent quite a bit of time going down to Locke St. to pop into the stores, attend a variety of events taking place, walk the Chedoke Trail, and enjoy many amazing restaurants there,” she says. “It's a place where I've always felt energized and wanted to ensure this community kept their publication. So, I accepted.”
And she’s managed to make a difference in many ways. Recently, one reader shared this thought: "I love that the topics covered in the magazine are hyper-local and relevant to my Neighbourhood — everything from the articles to the advertisements. It makes me feel part of a community."
A DAY IN THE LIFE
As a Publisher, my main role is to meet with local business owners and introduce them to ways they can enhance their brand visibility while contributing to their community. We utilize a combination of digital, print, listings, YouTube, and our sports website, BVMSports.ca to achieve this. I also strive to engage with the community to share their stories. Our publications are created with the input of the community, featuring their stories, recipes, events, pets, activities, and local information. We are often referred to as the "Facebook of print media." Thanks to our partners' sponsorships, readers receive the publication for free, and we ensure the content is community-driven. Whether the local business decides to partner or not, I become a personal referral source for them and they often share referrals with me of business owners they know that would benefit from our products.
You may be surprised to hear that we have over 1,400 publications in North America and approximately 80 in the Greater Toronto area. We have experienced exponential growth, year after year, opening new Neighbourhood publications approximately every 10-20 days! For each publication, there is a dedicated team comprising of a publisher, writer, photographer and designer from the area.
We have publishers ranging from 20-year-olds to 70-year-old retirees who want to stay connected to their community. Our community includes teachers, insurance professionals, lawyers, stay-at-home parents, professional athletes, and many others.
BVM's culture is built on the foundation of humility, with professional will, compassionate heart, and fun-loving spirit as our guiding
Photo supplied by Kiley Boyd
principles. Each day we have a 30-minute conference call, to share learnings, and trends, build a growth mindset, and learn how to "get our head right." It's all about striving to be your best version, personally and professionally. It's truly an amazing opportunity, and that's why I have been with them for four years."
Our workplace culture has caught the attention of countless organizations, including Glassdoor, Fortune, Great Place to Work, Top Workplaces USA and the Stevie Awards for Great Employers.
As an independent contractor, I enjoy the flexibility to control my schedule; to have breakfast with my kids and walk them to school, to be home at the end of their school day; to cook nutritious meals (not driving through fast food joints all of the time) and get them to their extra-curricular activities without "rushing like a chicken with my head cut off," as my grandmother would say. I work out of my home office or local coffee establishments.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a business sponsor or local publisher, to share content ideas/feedback, please reach out to me! I love sharing what I do and helping others.
Kiley Boyd, Publisher Tel.: 905 484 2633
Email: kileyboyd@bestversionmedia.com
Giving Back: The Spirit of Thanksgiving
By Allison Dempsey
Thanksgiving is approaching and this year in particular, due to a number of extenuating circumstances, obtaining food continues to be a challenge for many families in the area. In order to prepare for potential shortages, it's imperative to stock up on necessities from now until after the holiday season.
The Burlington Food Bank is always in need of donations, so if you're able, please consider giving where possible. In addition to providing goods like diapers, toiletries, and cleaning materials to local residents and more than 20 emergency food organizations throughout the city, the group also provides fresh and non-perishable food supplies. If you can, these are the 10 most needed items:
• Canned vegetables
• Large soup
• Cereal - hot and cold
• Juice (boxes and 1 Litre)
• Canned fruit
• Crackers
• Canned tomatoes
• Pasta sauce (canned)
• Baked beans
• Canned fish
With the main goal being to provide emergency food relief to people in need in Burlington, the organization is also working towards doing food banking better and making positive and long-lasting changes.
You can drop items off at the warehouse, in grocery stores, or at any Burlington Fire Hall. If you have non-perishable food to donate, you can drop it off at the Burlington Food Bank during business hours, at all Burlington fire stations and grocery stores with collection bins
While most donations are non-perishable food items, Burlington Food Bank also supplies milk, eggs, meat and fresh fruits and vegetables to clients. Food is sourced through corporate and individual donations, sponsorships, and through a collaborative membership with the FeedOntario and Food Banks Canada.
For more information, please visit burlingtonfoodbank.ca, contact by email at info@burlingtonfoodbank.ca and/or by phone at 905-637-2273 during business hours.
The Burlington Food Bank is located at 1A –1254 Plains Rd. E.
Website: www.burlingtonfoodbank.ca
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday: 9am – 11:45am Thursday evenings 5pm – 7pm.
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Additional evening visits may be available on request.
© Best Version Media
SPOOKY HALLOWEEN EYES
Submitted by Stella T.
It's almost Halloween! If you’re looking for an easy — and affordable — craft to do on your own or with your kids, we have you covered.
We’ve personally done this craft every year for the past four years and it always garners attention and admiration. Just collect your paper towel/toilet paper rolls and you’re good to go.
Take those paper towel/toilet paper rolls and carve “eyes” into them with scissors or a sharp knife. Insert glow sticks — shaken or cracked — and position in bushes.
Enjoy while scaring trick’er treaters!
© Best Version Media
2025 BUDGET
The full budget book will be available October 25 for discussion at the November 4 Committee of the Whole. Attend one of my upcoming drop-in sessions. Your input and feedback is important. I’m also happy to discuss any other topic that is important to you, community concerns, City or Region initiatives. No appointment is necessary.
Oct 1, 9-10:30am, Starbucks, 3051 Walkers Line
Oct 9, 11am-12:30pm, Fortino’s food court, 2515 Appleby Line
If you’re not available to attend a drop-in you are welcome to email me at angelo.bentivegna@burlington.ca
REINSTATEMENT OF PARKING RESTRICTIONS
The 1–6am parking restriction are once again in full force and effect. This offense was suspended City-Wide in late July in order to accommodate remedial work being completed in neighbourhoods affected by the July 15/16 flooding event.
Staff is aware that there are still some homes in the city effected by the flooding and the associated work. Parking exemptions for homes that require them, continue to be available and can be requested by contacting city@burlington.ca. Service Burlington staff will direct these requests to Parking Services who can review and approve on a case-bycase basis.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT POND – EAST OF TURNBERRY ROAD
The City is undertaking maintenance restoration works at the stormwater management pond located between Turnberry Road and Appleby Line. Sediment removal will be completed as part of a regular maintenance program, along with repair work where needed. The proposed works will be contained within City owned property.
Construction Details
No access to the work area via Turnberry Rd, pedestrian walkway on Turnberry Rd between 2243 Turnberry Rd, Unit 51 to 2207 Turnberry Rd from September 2 to construction completion date, eight weeks from construction start, subject to weather conditions.
• Construction includes dewatering of the pond, sediment removal, and small repairs.
• Restoration of disturbed areas to pre-disturbed conditions.
BETTER HOMES BURLINGTON ZERO-INTEREST LOAN APPLICATIONS
Burlington City Council has approved a second round of zero-interest loans up to $10,000 to a limited number of approved Burlington homeowners who would like to install an air-source heat pump in their home.
Eligibility Requirements
Residential low-rise building (detached, semi-detached or townhouse) located in Burlington, Ontario.
The property must have a property tax account with the City of Burlington and be serviced by gas or oil for home heating purposes.
All registered owner(s) of the property must consent to participating in the program.
Property tax and other payment obligations to the City of Burlington for the past five years must be in good standing.
Applications for the Better Homes Burlington Program will be accepted until the end of December 2024 or when the program is full, whichever comes first. The application form and more information can be found at burlington.ca/betterhomes
Rainbow Pole Wraps
The City of Burlington has installed pole wraps as part of the City’s Pride recognition, replacing the three rainbow crosswalks at Plains Road West and Botanical Drive, Upper Middle Road at M.M. Robinson High School entrance, and Fairview Street and Drury Lane.
The three locations did not winter well and have sustained damage. The defects in the crosswalk material have resulted in parts of the rainbow crosswalk coming away from the pavement. The three crosswalks will be replaced with standard white ladder crosswalks.
The rainbow crosswalk at Lakeshore Road at Burlington Avenue will remain.As always, you may contact me through email, phone, social media or by attending Ward 6 public open house meetings or drop-in sessions.
Sincerely,
Angelo Bentivegna, Ward 6 City and Regional Councillor
How to Motivate Yourself for a Run
By Emily Snider
“Y
ou will feel better after,” “just do it,” “the first step is the most difficult”…the list of phrases we use to get motivated to take off on a run go on and on. We’ve all experienced the feeling after a good workout where we feel accomplished, motivated, confident, and refreshed, but it’s so difficult to get ourselves to take that initial step. What are ways that we can motivate ourselves to go out on that run?
The first step is to buy clothes you like and will feel comfortable running outside in. Proper running gear keeps you warm on those chilly days, and you may find yourself more likely to use clothes you made an investment in for their intended purpose.
Next, pick some upbeat songs with motivating lyrics and play them while you get ready and warm up. These can become part of your routine to get your energy up and propel you into a successful run.
Accountability is another powerful tool, whether this is a running buddy or someone who checks in regularly to see how you’re doing. When choosing a running partner, look for someone who will run
a similar distance and pace as you. If you choose someone significantly slower than you, your workout may not feel as fulfilling. Meanwhile, running with someone much faster than you can make you miserable as you struggle to keep up the entire time. The perfect person has similar running abilities but is committed to challenging and pushing you to get better and faster.
Some cities have running clubs that are easy to join. These provide accountability as well as a variety of workout or circuit ideas that can change up your running routine. Sometimes they may take you on a long run with a consistent pace, or they may have workouts where you do a mixture of running, walking, and sprinting throughout. Workouts with variety keep things fun and decrease the time of your workout while maintaining the intensity.
Running is such a good habit to get in both for physical and mental health. It’s a great way to start the day or take a brain break in the middle of the day. It can be tough to get in the habit but can truly change your life for the better.
© Best Version Media
Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Submitted by Ruby T.
Tis the season for all things pumpkin! Whether it’s costumes or decorations or – recipes! — the “Ber” (September, October, November, December) months inspire a variety of crafts, recipes and so much more.
Pumpkin Coffee Cake
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil if you prefer)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup milk
Icing
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3¼ cups confectioners' sugar
Crumb Topping
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & levelled)
• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 11/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a nine-inch square or nine-inch springform baking pan(or any 2.5-quart baking dish) with nonstick spray. Set aside.
MAKE THE CRUMB TOPPING FIRST: In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon together. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or a fork. Mix to create clumps and crumbs. Set aside.
MAKE THE CAKE: Whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger together in a large bowl until combined. In a medium bowl, whisk the pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk together until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until *just* combined. Avoid over-mixing the batter. The batter will be very thick. Spoon/ pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread to make an even surface. Pour the crumb topping evenly on top and gently press them down into the batter.
Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes. Check the cake’s doneness at the 30-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If the toothpick comes out clean or with a couple moist crumbs, the cake is done. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, bake the cake for five more minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean.
MAKE THE ICING: Whisk the icing ingredients together. Add an extra splash of creamer/milk to thin out if desired. Drizzle over warm or cooled cake.
Cover leftover cake tightly and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to three days. Happy Halloween!
Best Version Media
AngelLittle
Submitted by Amanda Froment, Manager of Foster Care, HBSPCA
Hi, I'm Angel! I may be shy when I first meet you, but I’ll gain your trust in no time and become your best friend. I'm a gentle soul who loves to bask in the sun and snuggle up on a comfy bed or couch. I've recently started a weight loss journey and would love to find a family who can help me keep on track to becoming the healthy cat I'm destined to be. Adopting me means gaining a loyal, loving, and independent friend. I promise to bring joy to your life with my sweet and mellow personality.
Angel would do well in a quiet home, He needs a family that will help him on his weight loss journey and a home with room to roam. Angel is five years old.
The Great Pumpkin Patches of Hamilton
By Allison Dempsey • Art by Shelley Szczucki
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, everyone! Not only is the air crisper and the leaves brighter, the fields are filled with pumpkins and the orchards with apples. It’s a perfect time to get out with your family and friends to gather some of nature’s best bounty. If you’re looking for some farms to visit close to home, we’ve compiled a handy list so you don’t miss a single one.
Hanes Sunflower & Corn Maze
Visit the famous pie shop, Sunflower Maze, the Hanes Corn Maze, and Farmland.
#1001 HWY #5 West, Dundas www.thehanescornmaze.com
Dyment’s Glen Drummond Farm
On this scenic 120-acre farm you'll find the Market & Bakery, Pumpkin Patch and the Glen Drummond Farm which hosts weddings and events. 416 Fallsview Rd E, Dundas www.dyments.com
Lindley’s Farm & Market
Pumpkin hayrides & a fall harvest season in the market with an abundance of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. 900 Fiddler's Green Rd, Ancaster www.lindleyfarm.com
Puddicombe Farms
Activities include live music, a campfire with marshmallow roasting, Children’s’ Fun Zone, fresh fall baked goods, estate rides, fresh-pressed apple cider, pick-your-own pumpkins and more. 1468 #8 Highway Winona, Hamilton www.puddicombefarms.com
Howell Family Pumpkin Farm
Fall festival features over 20 attractions, games and shows. 2878 Holland Rd, Fonthill www.howells.ca
Bry-Anne Farms
Home of the Great Pumpkin Patch where you can purchase pumpkins, take a wagon ride, get lost in the straw or corn maze, visit the farm animals, or explore the Pumpkin Discovery Centre. 471 Foss Rd., Fenwick www.bry-annefarms.ca
Warner Ranch & Pumpkin Farm
Pumpkins of every shape and size! Thousands of colourful gourds, corn stalks, straw, hay bales, apples, squash, Indian corn and more.
7705 Schisler Rd, Welland www.warnerranchandpumpkinfarm.com
Thurs, Oct 10 to Mon, Oct 14
ROCKTON WORLD’S FAIR
@Rockton Fairgrounds
© Best Version Media
Get the family together for a good old-fashioned time at the fair when the Rockton World's Fair returns this Thanksgiving weekend. With everything from amusement rides, fair food, livestock shows, craft sales, and a demolition derby, there is fun to be had throughout the entire weekend. Make Thanksgiving memories to last a lifetime at the Rockton Fair this year.
Time/Cost: See website for details • www.rocktonworldsfair.com
Fridays, until Oct 11
FRIDAY NIGHT SAUSAGES
@Backed By Bees, 6214 Appleby Line
Come relax with us Friday nights as we grill up a simple sausage dinner on the patio. Served with a cold glass of Mead or HONEY SODA™, it’s all you need after a long week to usher in the weekend. Runs every Friday night on the Backed By Bees patio. No reservations required. Enjoy a simple dinner out in nature, take a walk around the pollinator path and see the bees.
Time: 5-8pm • www.backedbybees.com
Thurs, Oct 17
A LIFE IN MUSIC: VALERIE TRYON AT 90
@Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
Join Daniel Vnukowski, the host of Classical Jukebox 96.3FM, as he engages in conversation with Valerie Tryon, renowned international concert pianist. Experience Tryon’s memories and musical selections from her illustrious career as we celebrate her 90th birthday!
Time: 7pm • www.memorialarts.ca
Thurs, Oct 17 to Sun, Oct 27
TERRY FOX RUN
@Spencer Smith Park
This year, join us in Spencer Smith Park on with the 5k/10k run starting at 9 am, and the walk starting at 10am. All money raised will go towards innovative cancer research. Register for free on terryfox.org under Burlington with your team or as an individual. Can’t wait to see you out there!
Time: 9am-12:30pm • www.terryfox.org
Fri, Sept 20 to Sun, Oct 13
THE ARTIST’S MARK
@The Hub, Burlington Centre
The Burlington Fine Art Association’s Annual juried show, The Artist’s Mark celebrates the high-calibre of Burlington artists chosen by professional jurors, Rayne Tunley and Sam Paonessa. At this free show you can see the art and meet the artists, with an exciting awards ceremony to be held Sun, Oct 20, 1-4pm at the Hub.
Time: 10am-4pm • www.burlingtonfinearts.com
Fri, Oct 18 to Sun, Oct 27
THE GREAT PUMPKIN TRAIL
@Royal Botanical Gardens
Grab the kiddos, put on some festive gear, and follow the magical glow of jacko-lanterns down The Great Pumpkin trail. Enjoy live entertainment, pumpkinthemed activities, and fall treats. Wander down the path to Cheery Hill Gate and experience a mini-midway complete with rides and inflatables.
Time: 5:30-10pm • Cost: See website for details • www.rbg.ca
Sat, Oct 19
IRELAND HOUSE MUSEUM GHOST HUNT
@Ireland House
Join us for an intimate evening with spirit at Ireland House Museum! During this paranormal investigation, we will open the veil between worlds, and connect with the spirits of Ireland House, hearing their stories and learning about their lives.
Time: 7-10pm • www.museumsofburlington.ca
Fri, Oct 18 to Sun, Oct, 20
CAMPER HALLOWEEN
@Bronte Creek Provincial Park
A favourite time of year for our ghosts and goblins. Campers on this weekend are invited to decorate their sites (enviro friendly), dress up, trick-or-treat (pending
health guidelines) and join in on any Discovery programs offered that weekend.
Friday night drop-in at the Amphitheater – 7:30pm. Saturday evening guided hike – 8pm meet at the amphitheater. Other activities and schedule will be handed out to campers upon registration.
Time: 7pm-11am • www.ontarioparks.com
Ongoing, until Sun, Oct 13
CULTURE DAYS
@Burlington City-Wide Culture Days is a non-profit organization dedicated to building a national network of cultural connections devoted to providing Canadians with opportunities to participate in, and appreciate, all forms of art and culture. You’re invited to join local artists, culture professionals and creative organizations at free, interactive in-person and online events. www.burlington.ca
Sundays, until Sun, Oct 13
CENTRO FARMER’S MARKET
@Centro Garden
Located at the back of Centro in their parking lot off of John Street, the market focuses on creating community for the downtown. Stroll downtown to the market Sunday mornings, grab a coffee and snack and relax with neighbours while you shop for locally farmed produce, fresh home canned vegetables, organic teas, local hormone free meats, gourmet cheeses and more.
Time: 9am-11am • www.market.centrogarden.com
Sat, Oct 26
TREAT AND PET WALK
@Throughout Waterdown Village
This is the day Waterdown Streets come alive with music, magic, games and treats. Visit participating businesses for Halloween giveaways or collect a goodie bag from a designated treat station. Save the date!
Time: 11am-2pm • www.waterdownvillage.ca
Wed, Fri & Sat, until Sun, Oct 27
BURLINGTON CENTRE LIONS FARMER’S MARKET
@Burlington Centre
Vendors carry a wide variety of locally grown fresh produce, baking, meats, cheese, eggs, etc. You’ll find the freshest food available and you will be supporting your local farmers. The Market is located in the Burlington Centre parking lot, on the Prospect Street side of the mall.
Time: Wed., 8am-2pm; Fri., 8am-2pm; Sat., 8am-2pm. www.burlingtonfarmersmarket.com
Sun, Oct 27
SOUPREME! AN INDIGENOUS COOKING WORKSHOP
@Dundurn National Historic Site
Mohawk Chef Tawnya Brant returns to take us on a journey preparing traditional and inspired Indigenous soups! Recipes include a traditional white corn soup (gluten free/contains pork), Pickerel and Wild Rice Chowder (contains dairy/ gluten) and her own “Haudenosaunee Minestrone” (vegan/gluten free).
Time: 10am-12:30pm • Cost: $75 • www.hamilton.ca/dundurn
Jeff Scharf jscharf@bestversionmedia.com 705-207-1700
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