Look Local Winter Issue 2022

eat shop play local Oakville & Burlington

FAB WHAT'S INSIDE?

FITNESS MADE FUN CUSTOM FURNITURE OPTIONS

looklocalmagazine.com

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Volume 9 Issue 8

US F O O N L U

Here's to a happy Here's and healthy healthy Here's to aa happy happy and and tohealthy 2022!

2022!

2022!

SIMPLY REALTY is OAKVILLE’S PREMIER* SIMPLY REALTY is OAKVILLE’S PREMIER* BOUTIQUE REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE bringing you IMPLY REALTY is OAKVILLE’S PREMIER* BOUTIQUE REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE BOUTIQUE REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE bringing a highly tailored experience.

From cozy condosyou OUTIQUE REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE bringing you bringing you a highly tailored experience a highly tailored experience.

From cozy condos to luxury properties, Victoria will help you with an

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*Based on TRREB dollar volume in Oakville in 2020 for a single registrant brokerage ®

Inc., Brokerage

victoria@simplyrealty.ca SIMPLY REALTY SIMPLYREALTY.CA

*Based on TRREB dollar volume in Oakville in 2020 for a single registrant brokerage

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*Based on TRREB dollar volume in Oakville in 2020 for a single registrant brokerage *

2021-11-15 2:53 PM

Thank you for Supporting Local, Oakville Thank you for supporting Oakville businesses.

This winter season let’s continue to #lovelocal!

For more information, visit oakvillechamber.com/love-local

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CONTENTS VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 8

16

WINTER 202 2

HOME & GARDEN Custom Furniture Options

24

HEALTH & WELLNESS

32

SHOP LOCAL

Fitness Made Fun

Valentine's Gift Ideas

COMMUNITY 30 & 38

Community Events Local Hobby Shops

46 54

&

62

JUST FOR FUN All About Ice Fishing!

FOOD & DRINK The Wonderful World of Fondue Local Recipe: Cheescake-Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies from Sweet! Bakery

ZYLIK & BARRY GARDEN GIRLS

CUSTOM JEWELLERY DESIGN

CENTRO SWISS INTERIORS

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

OAKVILLE & BURLINGTON

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 8 Happy New Year!

2022 certainly came in with a whimper rather than a bang! I don’t think any of us could have predicted 3 months ago that we would be going into another winter season with further lockdowns, school closures, and restrictions in place.

Covid 19 has tested our resilience and our patience, and now more than ever we need to focus on the things that matter most – family, friends, and community. If we can keep supporting those close to us, we will get through this together. And I do believe 2022 will be a better year.

Keep on Supporting Local!

Tim Root publisher

cf

LOOKLOCALMAGAZINE

looklocalmagazine.com

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Tim Root

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jonathon Root

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Beth Walder EDITOR

Anneliese Lawton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jenny Ratcliffe-Wright Denise Davy Erin Pepler Amanda Schmalz ART DIRECTORS

Jennifer Brewster Sarah Lush Ashly Bowers MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Celina Ip 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

FOUR FLOORS OF FURNITURE

Furniture&Home Decor

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EDITOR’S LETTER

T

here’s nothing I love more than something warm (and caffeinated) on a cold day – and the mid-winter months certainly have a lot of those. While I’m not exactly a fan of this blistery season, there is something beautiful about winter in the Great White North. Fluffy blankets of snow, ice draping the trees – and yes, relaxing with a warm (caffeinated) cup.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, are you looking for something fon(to)due? Our Food feature is diverse and delicious – and will certainly melt in your mouth. From cheese to chocolate, our food expert brings fun to the table with fondue (and some pretty spectacular wine pairings).

Are you looking for a perfect piece of furniture for that funky space in your home? Why not try custom? Our Home and Garden feature may help you create exactly what you want.

Whether it’s collecting model cars or comic books, hobbyists have an eye for unique and fun paraphernalia – lucky for locals, our area is home to a number of one-of-a-kind hobby shops. See what they’re all about in our Community feature.

There are those who loathe the cold and then there are those who love it. If you’re itching to get outside, our Just for Fun feature will reel you in – it’s the season for ice fishing and we cover the best spots within a short drive from home!

Dance, kick and fly your way towards your resolutions. We have out-of-the-box fitness programs for every skill level in our Health and Wellness feature.

Here’s to 2022! It’s going to be a good one!

Anneliese Lawton

E D I TO R

| anneliese@looklocalmagazine.com

Let’s make food prep easy!

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The Kitchen Store We're Moving to 172 Lakeshore Road - Just One Block East!

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Home & Garden

UPGRADE YOUR HOME

with

CUSTOM FURNITURE

by ERIN PEPLER

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hen you’re shopping for new furniture, your first instinct may be to head to a big box store or maybe a high-end retailer you’ve heard good things about. Both of these are valid options, but don’t overlook another choice: custom pieces designed specifically for your home. While the idea may be intimidating, going custom may be easier and more accessible than you’d think. Here’s what you need to know, plus expert tips to help you get started.

THE BENEFIT OF GOING CUSTOM The main benefit of going custom is getting exactly what you want — the right size, scale, colour, material and function for your home. "While there are some beautiful mass-produced items on the market, they don’t work in every space", explains Jim Anderson of Anderson’s Interiors in Burlington. When you order a custom sofa, for example, you choose everything from the style and fabric to the specific dimensions of the piece and the firmness of the cushions. “It allows me to sit with a MEGAN ARTHURS

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ANDERSON’S INTERIORS

JOSHUA CREEK FURNITURE

client and design something to their specific needs,” Anderson says, noting that older clients may prefer a firmer couch and other clients may need something compact or oversized.

Jim Hobbs of Joshua Creek Furniture in Oakville agrees. “I’d recommend custom furniture to those who cannot find a standard piece to work for them or desire an item that is unique,” he says. Both Joshua Creek and Anderson’s offer custom pieces with design support in store.

While custom chairs, sofas and tables are a common request, consumers can order custom media consoles, end tables, headboards, full beds and more. “If it can be made out of wood, it can be custom,” Anderson says.

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WHEN IT COMES TO LARGE PIECES, AVOID ONLINE Online retailers may have great photos and tempting prices, but you often get what you pay for — or worse. “We hear it every day from customers — they made an error buying online,” Hobbs says. “We all know things look good in photos, and in reality it's a different story.

Furniture is a big investment and you want to invest wisely.”

To avoid regret, start your shopping journey in person. Ideally, you’ll be able to touch and feel various samples and even sit on furniture that’s been made by the same supplier.

CANADIAN-MADE QUALITY THAT LASTS

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Another benefit of custom furniture is the quality, particularly when you’re working with Canadian makers. Custom pieces are typically made with great care, so they look amazing, last longer and provide better long-term value. Buying custom also supports local makers and woodworkers.

Live Life Beautifully campbellcohome.com

19 331 Dundas Street East - Waterdown

ANDERSON’S INTERIORS

BLUE SKIES WOODWORK

One local furniture provider is Steve Culumovic of Blue Skies Woodwork in Burlington. Culumovic builds custom furniture and cabinetry for clients and agrees that going custom is an investment in craftsmanship. “The value of hiring a custom maker is in how the furniture is made,” he says. “The piece can be better built with better joinery choices. The maker can also pay closer attention to wood grain and colour, which is something not done in a factory setting. There is more care and attention paid in a custom shop which results in longer lasting and more appealing pieces of furniture.”

And, if your style preferences change in the years to come, you can refinish or reupholster a high-quality piece at a fraction of the cost of buying new.

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Local Links

1 Anderson’s Interiors

Andersonsinteriors.ca

2 Joshua Creek Furniture

Joshuacreekfurniture.com

3 Blue Skies Woodwork

blueskiescustomwoodwork.com

CAN YOU AFFORD TO GO CUSTOM? Custom furniture isn’t cheap, but it’s not just for wealthy households. Anderson notes that a lot of his custom furniture clients are retirees who have downsized and have a bit of extra cash flow from the sale of a home.

They know what they want, and they’re willing to invest in that perfect piece for their new condo or other living space.

431 Pearl St. Burlington ON theknittersboutique.ca

Generally, a custom piece is going to cost significantly more than something from a big box store. However, if you’re comparing the cost of custom to buying off-the-rack pieces from high end furniture brands, the Residential, Commercial & Industrial Garage Door Installations & Electric Operators • Repairs & Service • Custom Door Designs

5450 Harvester Road, Burlington 905.333.1772 | overheaddoorburlington.ca

ANDERSON’S INTERIORS

difference may be less than you’d think — and in some cases, it’s actually less expensive, Anderson asserts. This is due to rising costs related to the pandemic including material expense, supply chain issues and more.

Hobbs agrees, saying, “Canadian-made furniture is great value these days.”

It’s also important to consider how length of use factors in. If you pay $1500 for a sofa that’s going to fall apart in a few years, you’re not actually spending less in total than someone who buys a $4200 custom sofa that lasts well over a decade. Keep this in mind when making decisions — if you can swing the upfront cost, you’ll get better value (and a more beautiful home) in the long run. LL

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looklocalmagazine.com

Health & Wellness

Fitness Made Fun D A N C E , K I C K A N D F LY INTO THE NEW YEAR

by AMANDA SCHMALZ

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here is never a time quite like the present to try something new, especially coming into a new year where collectively, we are more than ready for change! If the world isn’t quite ready to give us that change, maybe it’s time to shake things up in our own lives.

Thinking about starting a new year with a new commitment to health is nothing new. But what if our workouts could look different this year? Working out doesn’t have to be monotonous or routine, and it doesn’t even have to feel like working out. It can be new, vibrant, exciting, and fun, all while transforming your health and confidence.

These local studios offer a variety of unique exercise classes for all ages, abilities, and interests. The only thing you need is a willingness to try something new and make a change.

Waterdown SPRING CLASSES Waterdown

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Private Parties

Private Parties

Private Parties Private Private Parties Parties

Local Links 1 Be Yoga and Wellness Beyogawellness.com

2 Yoga and Pole

Yogaandpole.ca

3 BellyUp

Bellyup.ca

BE YOGA AND WELLNESS

4 Inner Warrior Fitness

Innerwarriorfitness.ca

5 Barre Life

Barrelife.ca

6 Capoeira Bamba Mississauga Facebook.com/bambamississauga

Aerial Yoga You may be familiar with yoga, but this takes traditional yoga to new heights, literally! Be Yoga and Wellness in Burlington offers a zerogravity yoga experience with the help of a silk hammock attached to the ceiling. You don’t need to be experienced in yoga or a Cirque du Soleil performer to attend these classes where you will learn, improve, have fun, and develop incredible strength. Are you ready to fly?

Pole Classes There are many stereotypes associated with pole “dancing”, but have you ever considered that it could actually be a full-body workout that combines resistance training, cardio, strength, and flexibility? This is an incredibly fun and active way to build your confidence in a way that doesn’t feel like you are working. Check out Yoga and Pole in Oakville for a complete schedule of all level classes.

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BELLY UP

Belly Dancing Dance can be a great way to work out, and Egyptian Belly Dance is no exception. Located in beautiful downtown Burlington, BellyUp offers classes for curious beginners to those with higher levels of experience.

Belly dancing is perfect for recreation, fitness, self-transformation, and artistry, and BellyUp is a non-judgmental and safe space to explore and try new things.

30 YEARS OF CUSTOM LEATHERWORK

Celebrate the Art of Entertaining

flourishandbask.ca

@flourishandbask

245 Lakeshore Road E, Unit 2, Oakville

TUNDRALEATHER .CA 313 KING STREET EAST, HAMILTON 905.527.7745

INNER WARRIOR FITNESS

CAPOEIRA BAMBA

BARRE LIFE

Kickboxing and Martial Arts If dancing and yoga aren’t your thing, Inner Warrior Fitness in Oakville has other forms of modern workouts for you to try. Their large variety of classes include martial arts, kickboxing, and more, and are available to all experience levels. You will sweat, learn, improve, and have fun in a way that is sure to bring out your inner warrior!

Barre There is a new dance workout raising the “barre” and it brings new life and energy to traditional ballet. Barre Life in Oakville combines ballet, pilates, and yoga in a unique class that utilizes a ballet barre and resistance bands. Several varieties of classes exist, each targeting slightly different things, available for all levels of experience.

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Capoeira Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. Capoeira Bamba Mississauga is the perfect authentic local studio for you to experience this new art form. Be prepared to try putting your body in positions that you may have never thought possible as you learn this art form and immerse yourself in a different culture, all while becoming a stronger version of yourself.

We continue to face a world that is unknown, so with a new year upon us, perhaps embracing the unknown with newfound confidence could be empowering. These studios are unique, but they share a few things in common; they are locally owned, inspiring places ready to welcome you as you try something new, focus on your health, have fun and make a change! LL

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Appointments Offered In Lab & On Location

Community Events

Winterlit JAN

28

P.A Day “Games Night”

Enjoy a creative, fun, and hands-on activity led by a Museum Educator! All programs have a fun theme and are designed for children aged 8-12, parental supervision is recommended.

Register online.

Museums of Burlington Virtual Museumsofburlington.ca

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FEB

20

Winterlit

The wooded trails at Mountsberg are always beautiful in the wintertime but now they are even more magical than ever! The Winterlit Trail features a unique and stunning lighting experience with inspirational art installations along the trail. Ticketed event running Wednesday to Sunday evenings.

Mountsberg 2259 Milborough Line, Campbellville Conservationhalton.ca

FEB

5

Great Canadian ButterTart Festival

Bite into butter tarts at the stop of The Great Canadian ButterTart Fest. Top bakers from across Ontario come together and never disappoint. This year there will also be top Master Mac & Cheese Chefs!

Want more? Explore talented artisans and crafters and grab a warm beverage.

Ancaster Fairgrounds 630 Trinity Road, Ancaster Allcanadianevents.com

15

13

From cards and candy, to Cupid and his bow, have fun discussing popular Valentine's Day traditions throughout history.

Participants will make a card and paint a gift to give to their special Valentine. Caregivers are required to stay with their children during this program.

Oakville Museum Coach House 114 King Street, Oakville Oakville.ca

Family Day Trivia

FEB

starting FEB

Crafting Valentine’s

FEB

A Taste of Oakville

It’s Back – A Taste of Oakville returns to Downtown Oakville, Bronte Village, Kerr, and across Oakville!

A number of restaurants in Oakville are offering unique prixfixe lunch and dinner menus at specific price points. There is no better time to support your local restaurants!

February 15 to March 6 Atasteofoakville.com

Knitted Hat 16-23 Workshop FEB

Learn the traditional craft of knitting at the Oakville Museum. Only basic knitting skills are required to learn how to use circular knitting needles in this workshop. Over two sessions, you will learn how to knit in the round to create your own stylish toque topped with a pom-pom. Age: 18+ Oakville Museum Coach House 114 King Street, Oakville Oakville.ca

21

Join Museums of Burlington for some Family Day Virtual Trivia Questions that will relate to the special exhibition at Joseph Brant Museum: TRUE/FALSE | THE FUN SCIENCE EXHIBITION. Trivia will be divided into 3 categories that reflect the exhibit: nature and animals, humans and food, science and technology. Reserve your spot online.

Museums of Burlington Virtual Museumsofburlington.ca

starting FEB

24

A Taste of Burlington

Dine at some of Burlington’s hottest restaurants during Taste of Burlington.

Restaurants across the city will be offering a prix fixe menu for lunch/dinner; with lunch offered at $15,$20 or $25 and dinner at $30, $35 or $40. Bite in!

February 24 to March 20 Tasteofburlington.ca looklocalmagazine.com

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Shop Local

LOVE LOCAL

Shop Local this Valentine's Day A GREENER PLACE WATERDOWN This rose gold themed gift box is perfect for those that love being pampered. A perfect mix of sweets and self-care treats - and all are eco-friendly!

agreenerplace.ca

FIORI OAKVILLE Surprise your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a beautiful floral arrangement from FIORI. From traditional red roses to a wide selection of gorgeous arrangements, you're sure to find the perfect pick for that special someone.

fiorioakville.com

THE DIAMOND BOUTIQUE HAMILTON Make her Valentine's Day sparkle and shine with this absolutely stunning 14k diamond necklace & earrings set.

thediamondboutique.ca

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BLUBOHO OAKVILLE Give a little love with these dainty heart-shaped studs.

bluboho.com

JOSEPH TASSONI BURLINGTON Buttery-soft and luxurious, these Joseph Tassoni bamboo bath robes are the PERFECT gift to wrap your loved ones in.

They also make a great self-care treat.

josephtassoni.com

inspired home décor

Life is better at the Lake 100 Bronte Road, Oakville | 905.469.9990 | Shop Online at lakesidelivin.com

THE SWEETEST THING OAKVILLE Sweeten their day with these decadent Valentine's Day treats baked with mouthwatering goodness and lots of love.

thesweetestthing.com

MAISON APOTHECARE OAKVILLE Cologne; the unseen accessory for him.

Treat him to Mr. Gladstone; a natural waxbased cologne that comes in three old fashioned scents for those who traverse life's paths with effortless confidence.

maisonapothecare.ca

TERRADOMI CANDLE CO Spoil yourself or a loved one with a gift set featuring luxurious treats from Canadian artisans. The 'Lush' gift set includes: a coconut body balm, exfoliating clay bar, midnight rose bath bomb, and a 'You Are Love' candle.

looklocal.ca

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SHE BOUTIQUE Show yourself some self-love with a relaxing at-home spa experience The Stillness Kit is specially curated for an evening of aromatherapy, skin pampering, stillness, meditation and restorative sleep.

looklocal.ca

OAKVILLE JEWELLERY

OAKVILLE

Update the "diamond ring for Valentine's Day" tradition with a fun and flashy gemstone ring, customized with your choice of stones.

oakvillejewellery.ca

E T H I C A L LY S O U R C E D C E R T I F I E D N A T U R A L & L A B D I A M O N D S . R E A S O N A B L E P R I C E S . S A M E D A Y S E R V I C E

A Jewe l l e r y stu dio w ith ex p er ienc ed j ewe l l e r y d e sOAKVILLE i gner s goldsmJEWELLERY iths on p r emi s e s .

OAKVILLE JEWELLERY YOUR PERSONAL MASTER JEWELLER

2 5 5 L A K E S H O R E R O A D E . O A K V I L L E 9 0 5 . 8 4 5 . 5 6 0 0 S H O P @ O A K V I L L E J E W E L L E R Y. C A O A K V I L L E J E W E L L E R Y. C A

Shop a curated selection of products from outstanding small businesses

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Community

•Hobby•

Stores Galore THE PERFECT PASTIME

by DENISE DAVY

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tep into a hobby shop and you’re stepping into a collector’s dream world.

Model cars, miniatures, comic books, games, toys – you collect it, and it’s there.

Oakville and Burlington have many specialty hobby shops carrying everything from comic books and gaming needs to military miniatures. With their wide range of products and specialties, you'll want to visit them all!

COMIC CONNECTION OAKVILLE COMIC-CONNECTION.COM

With more than 30 years in the comic book business, it’s easy to see why Comic Connection calls itself the most experienced comic book store in Halton.

Their location on Speers Road in Oakville is a one-stop-shop for comic books and gaming needs. Love superheroes? They have a huge collection of DC, Marvel, and Indie comics from every era with stock that goes beyond the floor. If they don’t have a certain issue in-store, their team is happy to order it for you.

They also have a massive collection of figures and statues, including Pop figures of popular shows, movies, and books. For added fun, they offer gaming nights.

905.662.6922 7 King Street E. Stoney Creek TheDiamondBoutiqueInc fclooklocalmagazine.com 39

HOBBY AND TOY CENTRAL BURLINGTON | HOBBYANDTOYCENTRAL.COM

Located in Mapleview Mall in Burlington, Hobby and Toy Central is stocked with a wide variety of models (ships, aircraft, cars), toys, games, puzzles, and activity items for play and learning.

Founded in 1985, they have four stores in South West Ontario, including Burlington. Their goal is to provide new and experienced hobbyists with a wide selection of models, accessories, services, and supplies. Their model car kits are second-to-none, and customers rave about the Chevy Corvette, Cadillac Sport, and Ford Torino. There’s even the Star Trek USS Enterprise model for Trekkie fans.

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For puzzle lovers, Hobby and Toy Central has something for every age and skill level, including 1,000-piece puzzles, and an impressive 3D puzzle of the Eiffel Tower.

In their Science department, there’s a mini solar robot and a large box set of the solar system which includes eight glow-in-thedark planets (plus Pluto!). They also carry juggling rings and a “make your own” rocket that’s powered

by vinegar and baking soda.

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In Oakville, you’ll also find Carefree Hobbies, Models, and Collectibles, carrying a fun supply of trains, planes, and automobiles along with antique military equipment. They specialize in military miniatures, including Thomas Gunn Military Miniatures, which are known for their attention to detail and superior quality. If you’re looking for rare, unusual, or out-ofproduction items, Carefree Hobbies will source them for you.

Their other specialty is their fun selection of miniature trains and accessories. Local bestselling writer, Linwood Barclay, is known for his impressive miniature train sets that fill his basement; one might wonder if his passion for the hobby started with a visit to this store.

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SKYCRAFT HOBBIES BURLINGTON SKYCRAFTHOBBIES.COM

At Skycraft Hobbies on Plains Road East in Burlington, their shelves are filled with remote control racing cars, helicopters, jeeps, airplanes, and monster trucks. They also carry various boats, including a catamaran that’s modeled after offshore race boats, and hydroplanes which are typically for the more advanced RC racer. But likely, the most impressive thing on their shelves is their drones.

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OAKVILLE AND BURLINGTON MASTERMINDTOYS.COM

Mastermind Toys, located in both Oakville and Burlington, carry classic games like a wooden jigsaw puzzle shaped like a dragon, matchbox puzzles, and a 3D puzzle of the Titanic. They have a huge selection of games, from the fan favourite Catan to classics like Operation, Charades, and Monopoly.

SHAE ROSE

As the saying goes, if you can’t find it at a hobby store, you can’t find it anywhere. LL

shaerose.ca

311 D U N DA S S T R E E T. E 905.689.1611

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Just for Fun

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Make for Warm Memories ICE FISHING LOCAL WATERS

by Anneliese Lawton

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T

he winter months can feel pretty long – especially if it’s a winter heavy with snow. Thankfully, our landscape allows for endless winter adventure. You can hit the slopes for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at Kelso Conservation Area, or venture to Bronte Creek Provincial Park to enjoy a pristine cross-country ski. Then, there are our lakes and waterways. When frozen over, they serve as the perfect setting for any angler to drop their line. Fishing doesn’t have to stop when the cold weather rolls in. In fact, ice fishing is perfect for both avid anglers and families alike.

Are you ready to cast into the cold waters? Fifty Point Conservation, Valens Lake Conservation, and Binbrook Conservation in Hamilton all offer ice fishing when the conditions allow. However, the conservation authority doesn’t supply ice huts, equipment, or bait. If you’re looking for a full-service ice fishing experience, you may want to venture just a little bit further from the city.

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Sarah Paireo from Simcoe Ice Fishing in Lefroy (Innisfil) says, “Typically, our bay freezes over in January, but the timing is variable. We wait for a solid 4-6 inches of ice before it’s safe to head out.” Generally, you can head out onto the lake as soon as the ice is frozen and thick enough – it all depends on the weather. There are several factors that determine ice thickness— the type of water, location, air temperature, water temperature, water depth, the size of the water body, and the presence of underwater springs or currents.

Summer Dream Ice Fishing in Orillia has been fishing Lake Couchiching for over 38 years.

They also have heated ice huts and are conveniently located near Elwood Epps Fishing Store where you can obtain everything for your fishing needs (including a fishing license which is required for everyone between the ages of 18 and 65). While the huts are warm, Summer Dream says, “Ice fishing is a winter sport so you will need to dress accordingly in warm outdoor clothing, including boots, mitts, and a hat.” However, Sarah from Simcoe Ice Fishing adds, “Hut rentals are wonderful to provide

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a shelter with comfy padded benches, predrilled holes, minnows, and a cooking stove for those who want to prepare food.”

Elwood Epps in Orillia has everything you need when it comes to fishing gear. If you don’t want to use live bait, their Baby Guppy Ice Fishing bait mimics a live minnow. They also have an ice fishing line – which is actually different from the line you would use in the warmer months. The ice fishing line has a special compound to keep it from freezing to your rod. If you’re completely in the dark about the sport, the experts are ready to help. Debbie Martin from Summer Dream says, “For guests who have never experienced ice fishing we will teach you how to set up your fishing rod and the techniques on how to catch fish.

For those who already know how to ice fish, we will guide you to where (hopefully) the best ice fishing spots are.”

As for what you can expect to pull out of the water – think big. Both Sarah and Debbie say ice fishing is the perfect time to pull out giant perch, pike, pickerel, and crappie. LL

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MEET VICKY & RUZA

of

JUS B’ GAUZE

LL

What sort of products do you carry?

Our clothing is amazing for travelers. Gauze is 100% natural cotton, easy to pack and doesn’t require ironing. It’s soft and comfortable, and great for hot, humid weather. We also carry fashions for all seasons and occasions, whether it be for work, travel or spending time with friends and family.

LL

Why Burlington?

We have lived in the area for many years, raising our families and enjoying life in southern Ontario. When we bought the business, it had a strong following with customers from Niagara to Toronto.

JUS B’ GAUZE BURLINGTON

LL

How have you adapted with everything going on?

The biggest update is our website, where you can now shop all the styles we carry and have them delivered anywhere in North America.

We have curbside pickup and free delivery in Oakville & Burlington. We also offer private shopping, online or in-person, and ‘Fizzy Fridays’ where we showcase new arrivals over Facebook.

LL

What’s your favourite product(s) that you carry?

We look for unique, flattering and comfortable clothing that is made to last, and we love supporting Canadian designers. Some of our favourites are Guru, Frank Lyman, Sympli, Linen Luv, Kollontai, Wanted Jewelry, and Gilmour.

Bryn Walker, My Soul, Q Neel, Pure Venice, Bella Amore and Sassy by Dolcezza are new brands we brought in last year. Gauze will always be our #1 love, but you’ll find so much more at Jus B Gauze.

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he original fondue - Swiss cheese fondue - was said to have originated in 18th century Switzerland by farmers in mid-winter. They needed to stretch their food supplies over the cold season and so developed the dish of fondue which deliciously used up any stale bread, with leftover cheese and a splash of liquor.

Modern-day cheese fondue, made traditionally, is very simple and does not really differ much from the original: simply begin by rubbing a clove of raw garlic on the inside of a medium-sized cast-iron casserole. Combine grated Emmentaler cheese and Gruyere with white wine, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a touch of cornstarch, and heat until it is melted. Finish off with a dash of Kirsch (cherry brandy) and a grind of pepper, and your fondue is ready to serve. A perfect romantic dinner for two or a rowdy crowdpleaser, it is that easy. For dipping options, the list is endless.

Classic accompaniments could be; grilled or toasted bread chunks,

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or even just fresh crusty bread, pulled apart at the table. Tortilla chips and crackers work well for a lighter option. Boiled or roasted baby potatoes or any other vegetables are delicious. Raw or blanched cauliflower or broccoli are great, or raw mushrooms are also an option.

If you like a heavier meaty option, meatballs or chunks of seared tenderloin would be delicious, or even some poached shrimp. For a sweeter variation, pear or apple chunks are a great alternative.

Fondue Bourguignon is another popular style of fondue. It does not hail from Burgundy as the name would suggest. It is said that it was brought to the US by the Swiss-born restaurateur Konrad Egli, owner of Swiss Chalet in the 1950’s. Apparently, the dish originated in Switzerland with farmworkers cooking their lunch in the fields in the winter, bringing a pot of oil to cook their meat over a fire. Since then,

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through Egli and embellishments of his version, there are so many ways to enjoy this simple meal.

Rule number one is to make sure your pot is very stable as the spilling of hot oil could be a very painful way to end a party. Traditionally beef tenderloin was used for this style of fondue, but things have now progressed to all sorts of protein including chicken, lamb, duck, seafood, or tofu. The sauces are what make the fondue really fun, and they are often served on a swiveling Lazy Susan, so that guests can easily reach each sauce. Bearnaise sauce (a sauce of butter and eggs flavoured with tarragon and shallot) is always a classic. Other popular choices are sour cream mustard, horseradish cream, herb butter dipping sauce, or barbecue. For a healthier version of this fondue, one can substitute the oil with broth.

Any type of broth can be used and it can be flavoured with garlic and herbs or just served plain.

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N E X T D AY D E L I V E R Y AVA I L A B L E I N O U R O N L I N E S H O P 282 Kerr Street, Oakville • Open Tues - Sun • 905.582.0862 • info@thesweetestthing.com

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To finish off a meal, chocolate fondue is a real treat. Any type of chocolate is mixed with cream and then melted. A flavoured liqueur can be added for a different spin. Amaretto or Bailey’s work well or you can try some peppermint schnapps for a candy cane twist. The dipping options are as decadent as you would like. Biscotti, marshmallows, fruit, pretzels, cookies, Rice Crispy squares, and pieces of pound cake are all very popular.

Of course, consideration should be given to what wine pairs well with fondue. In the cold winter months, Icewine is on our minds and it is the perfect match for both cheese and chocolate fondue. Icewine is made by leaving the grapes on the vine for the winter so that the water in the grapes freezes. The frozen grapes are quickly picked and pressed so that the frozen water in the grapes remains behind and the concentrated juice that does flow, is very high in sugar. This is then made into a sweet and luscious wine.

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Oakville’s Best Sandwiches 100 BRONTE RD. #1 OAKVILLE, ONTARIO L6L 6L5

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Try these decadent sticky gems, served well chilled.

Trius Vidal Ice Wine has flavours of tropical fruit with a tangy citrus finish.

6495

Inniskillin Vidal Ice Wine

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4495

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put Canada on the Icewine map by winning the 1989 Grand Prix D’Honneur at Vinexpo.

It has floral aromas and hints of mango.

Cave Spring Riesling Ice Wine 39

$

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from the Riesling experts, is exceptional with notes of apple, minerality, and peach pie.

Henry of Pelham Red Ice Wine is an unusual blend of red grape (Cabernet Franc) and white grape (Vidal) and has delicious flavours of strawberry and raspberry.

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Southbrook Organic Ice Wine offers notes of toffee, honey, and mango.

13th Street Winery Riesling Reserve Ice Wine

5995

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is golden yellow in the glass and has intense aromas of apricot, nectarine, peaches and wild honey.

With these delicious wines on hand, and a fondue pot at the ready, your celebration is sure to be a great success. LL

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Specialty Colombian Coffee Roaster & Cafés www.veredacentral.ca @veredacentral.ca 310 Kerr St. 1011 Upper Middle Rd E.

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At Vereda Central, we source the best quality specialty coffee beans and roast them in house to provide an array of unique flavours to tantalize your taste buds.

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Local Recipe

CHEESECAKE-STUFFED

Red Velvet Cookies 62

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A cake inside a cookie!?

That's right... the ultimate cookie exists, and can be found in Bronte Village.

Try these at home, or order yours from Sweet! Bakery in time for Valentine's Day!

INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup butter, room temperature 1/2 cup sugar, plus more for rolling 3/4 cup brown sugar 2 eggs 2 tsp vanilla 1/2 tsp red colour (preferably gel if available) 2 cups flour 1/3 cup cocoa powder 1.5 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt Cream cheese frosting, either homemade or store-bought, chilled METHOD 1

2

3

4

ream butter and sugars together until C smooth. Beat in eggs, vanilla, red colour.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt, add to wet ingredients. Mix until combined and smooth. oll into golf-ball-sized balls and flatten R into discs. Put 1 tsp chilled cream cheese frosting in centre of each disc and gently wrap the dough around it into a ball so no cracks remain. Chill for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. oll balls in sugar and bake at 350 R degrees for 12-14 minutes, until edges are firm and centres are still soft.

Let cool and share with someone you love!

289.837.1193

www.sweetbakery.ca

c sweetbakeryoakville f @sweetbakeryoakville looklocalmagazine.com

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MASERATI