The events of the last few years have brought into focus many important realities of life — who we are as individuals and the legacies we plan to leave behind.
Being with our families and having the ability to connect with them and share our significant milestones has taken on a new meaning. As many Ontarians confront their own mortality, the value in appropriate estate planning and the creation of a Will is apparent. If an individual dies without a valid Will, their estate will pass in accordance with the laws of intestacy, which are set out in the Succession Law Reform Act. This article will not explore that process suffice it to say that allowing the legislature and courts to determine your wishes rather than clearly setting them out is not ideal. When planning your Will, there are several key questions to consider. Who do you want carrying out your wishes and ensuring that your goals are met? This individual is called the executor of your Will and it is crucial to select the right person for you, as well as an alternate.
This person would have to agree to assume legal guardianship, standing in for you in your role as
a parent. Again, this is also an appointment who must have an alternate. Other questions may arise with the distribution of your assets and making sure there is money left over to take care of your families needs. All these questions, and more, should be discussed and assessed with your lawyer when planning your Will. Sutherland Marshall provides a free, initial 30-minute consultation to begin this process. Sutherland Marshall Professional Corporation is an award-winning law firm that offers a personalized approach to each client. Founder John David Sutherland and his team provide specialized services in Wills and Estates, Real Estate Law, Family Law and Corporate Law. Other questions may arise with the distribution of your assets and making sure there is money left over to take care of your family’s needs.
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THE PUBLISHER
Thank you for picking up our late fall issue of Look Local.
November is a bit of an “in-between” month, stuck between Halloween and the Holiday season. But never fear — our editorial team has a terrific line-up of stories for you in this issue, all focused on helping you to prepare for winter and plan more of your family’s fun activities indoors. We hope you enjoy this issue! Please feel free to email us with your feedback at info@looklocalmagazine.com.
Tim Root
Tim
Jonathon Root
Beth Walder EDITOR
Michelle Morra
Lisa Evans
Chris Selman
Cyndi Ingle
Nicole Hilton
Sarah Noble
Trinity Paton
November gets a bad rap. Sandwiched between the orange glow of October and the holiday magic of December, November is all chill, no thrill… Or is it?
I, for one, welcome November as a chance to bundle up, walk in the woods and feel crisp air on my face. I enjoy raking leaves and putting gardens to bed (writer Lisa Thornbury shares sustainable ways to do this on page 20). Eventually, though, the outdoors become grey, blustery, and uninviting. That’s the time for indoor adventures.
In this edition of Look Local, our writers describe several ways to warm the spirit while feeding the body and brain. Lisa Evans reports on where artisans-in-the-making can take pottery classes and get their hands dirty. Cyndi Ingle sings the praises of karaoke and shares her favourite local hotspots. You’ll learn about the soothing effects of a good massage in our feature by Nicole Hilton. As for me, I describe a personal favourite November escape — flying my tastebuds to warmer climates by gorging on Peruvian food.
November is a time of remembrance. We at Look Local are grateful for the Remembrance Day feature that Chris Selman, Curator of The Oakville Museum, contributed to our magazine this month. Don’t miss his story of two young Oakville residents who joined the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II only to say goodbye to loved ones far too soon.
Wishing you a thought-provoking and cozy reading experience.
Michelle Morra
Autumn leaves are beautiful. And messy. And slippery. Understandably, the urge to clean them up is strong.
Landscape maintenance crews and their leaf blowers do a fine job of tidying up our driveways, porches and walkways, making them neat and safe to walk on. A new school of thought on “fall cleanup,” suggests not taking this too far, however. The esthetic benefits of removing every leaf — particularly from lawns and gardens — don’t nearly outweigh the environmental impact of this practice.
Who benefits from a leaf-free yard? It’s certainly not the critters that thrive under the blanket of leaves. And it’s definitely not our lawns, which would shout, “Drop that rake!” if they could. What lawn wouldn’t want to get tucked into a cozy bed of leaves for the winter?
Personally, I now realize that all this raking might have been for my neighbours’ benefit. I faced the same dilemma in the spring, pulling dandelions to avoid looking like a lazy gardener.
“A more eco-friendly fall cleanup involves working with the environment, not against it.”
DEREK LIPPERT, FOUNDER OF QUIET NATURE NATURAL LANDSCAPES
“We’ve been conditioned to believe that a pristine yard, free of leaves and dandelions, is the goal,” says Derek Lippert, founder of Quiet Nature Natural Landscapes. “However, this neatness comes at a cost. Removing every leaf deprives nature of its free mulch and shelter for insects like butterflies and ladybugs, which play a vital role in the ecosystem.”
Lippert adds that it’s okay to want a tidy yard. Go ahead and rake or blow leaves off your driveway, porch and walkways but in the lawn or garden, “Instead of hauling away every last leaf, why not let nature lend a hand?” he says. “A more eco-friendly fall cleanup involves working with the environment, not against it.”
1 Mow over them
Instead of raking, mow over the leaves to chop them into smaller pieces. These shredded bits will break down, enriching the soil with organic matter. It’s like a free feast for your lawn! Plus, a lawn sprinkled with shredded leaves doesn’t look messy – it looks eco-friendly.
2 COMPOST THEM
Lippert suggests adding fallen leaves to your compost pile. “Rich in carbon, they balance nitrogen from kitchen scraps and grass clippings. Layer them together, and in a few months, you’ll have nutrient-rich compost ready for your garden.”
3 Use them as garden mulch
Instead of buying mulch, shred your leaves and spread them over garden beds. They help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. As the leaves break down, they’ll add nutrients to the soil. Your plants will thrive, and your wallet will thank you.
4 Make leaf mould
If you’ve got space, make leaf mould by piling up leaves and letting them sit for about a year. As they decompose, they turn into a crumbly, rich substance that’s fantastic for your garden. Leaf mould helps with water retention, so your plants won’t dry out as quickly.
5 Protect plants & insects in winter
“Sensitive plants can benefit from a blanket of leaves in the winter,” says Darla from The Garden Girls. “Pile them around the base of perennials, shrubs, and trees to insulate their roots from freezing. Then when spring arrives, either leave the mulch in place or compost it. Not only will your plants benefit, but butterflies, pollinators and other beneficial insects that overwinter in the dead leaves will thank you as well.”
This fall, don’t look at those fallen leaves as a chore. Think of them as Mother Nature’s gift to your garden. Embracing sustainable cleanup practices is an easy, eco-friendly way to keep your yard thriving for seasons to come. And no, you’re not a lazy gardener — you’re a clever, eco-friendly one. I think I’ll make a sign for my yard that says, “Beleaf me, these leaves are helping my garden.”
sculpture & more by Canada’s Inuit and First Nations artists
Healg Tou
Everyone could use a massage
BY NICOLE HILTON
Developing a regular wellness routine is more important than ever. When you’re mapping out your journey, remember to include massage therapy as a holistic way to optimize your health. Massage is a well-known healing practice that promotes relaxation and recovery. Whether you’re looking to treat a chronic injury, release pain, or manage everyday stress, as the saying goes, ‘massage is knot a want, it’s a knead’!
Vally hg
A massage is typically a 30, 60 or 90 minute dose of calmness you wouldn’t otherwise experience in your day. During your appointment, you can escape responsibilities and screen time by concentrating on what’s happening at that very moment. A massage is commonly known to boost your mood, help you find mental clarity, increase confidence and reduce stress by using the body’s natural endorphins. “Massage is a widely sought treatment for effectively addressing a range of conditions,” says Heather Buckle, Managing Partner at Zenbar Healing Studio. “It’s beneficial for managing musculoskeletal issues such as chronic pain, muscle tension, and joint stiffness by promoting circulation, improving flexibility, and reducing inflammation.”
looklocal.ca
“Massage therapy is for everyone,” says Tammy Sherwood, Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) and owner of Thrive Massage Therapy and Wellness. “From infants to seniors, everyone can benefit. Massage can be a useful addition to a proactive wellness plan as there are so many options for modalities within the scope of massage and many RMTs have additional certifications to help address your goals and keep you moving.”
ZENBAR
For thousands of years, massage therapists have supported health and provided relief. “Incorporating regular massage appointments into your life will add a deeper understanding of your body and help you learn how to carry forward the benefits into your daily routine,” says Rebecca Wasilewski, RMT, RYT, and owner of OM Massage and Wellness.
Tips for f ters
The best way to discover what type of massage will benefit you the most is to speak with a professional. “Each therapist has unique strengths and expertise,” says Buckle. “Finding the right match for your preferences –whether you like deep tissue, lymphatic drainage, Swedish massage, or a combination, is the key to a successful experience.”
Communication with scheduling staff is important as is explaining your preferences, injuries, or conditions to your therapist. “Ensure your client intake forms are fully completed and prepare for an assessment before your treatment,” says Sherwood. “Ask as many questions as you want before consenting to treatment. This is your time. It can be a mindful, quiet treatment, or you can chat away! The number one priority is always your comfort level.”
What is a Registered (RMT)?
According to the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario, only individuals registered with them are permitted to use the titles and associated letters MT (Massage Therapist) and RMT with their names.
“An RMT is capable of offering deep tissue massage and can navigate best practices for treating injuries and conditions,” explains Heather Buckle, Managing Partner at Zenbar Healing Studio.
“To have this designation, these therapists have passed a rigorous academic and clinical test and must maintain annual licensing requirements.”
MASSAGE & WELLNESS 46 King Street West, Second Floor, Dundas 250 Dundas Street East, Waterdown
Offering many services from naturopathic medicine and acupuncture to yoga and educational workshops, OM has your wellness as a top priority. Their massage therapy is dedicated to personal care beginning with the environment. Warm tables, dim lights, and soft, soothing music help ease you into your wellness journey.
THRIVE MASSAGE THERAPY & WELLNESS
318-2289 Fairview Street, Burlington
THRIVEMASSAGEWELLNESS.COM
At Thrive, the team creates an environment that allows individuals to feel welcome, well-cared for, and confident that their wellbeing is the primary focus. Offering a range of services like chiropractic treatments, osteopathy, acupuncture, and pelvic health practices, they also have an experienced registered massage therapy team to help you meet your wellness goals. You can book an appointment for registered massage therapy, craniosacral massage therapy, or reflexology massage therapy.
THE PEARLE HOTEL & SPA
3 Elizabeth Street, Burlington
THEPEARLEHOTEL.CA/SPA
The Pearle Spa offers a premium spa full body treatment, or you can choose from a customized beauty regime to renew, recharge and refresh yourself. Unwind with expert massage therapy and facial treatments in a tranquil spa setting with luxurious private massage rooms. You can choose from a total of seven different massage treatments catering to every condition, including athletes and expectant mothers.
ZENBAR HEALING STUDIO
487 Cornwall Road, Oakville
ZENBARHEALING.COM
If you’re searching for a unique experience, opt for a Salt Cave Massage at Zenbar Healing Studio. Offered as an individual or couples massage in a room with beautifully lit Himalayan Salt Rocks, each room has a professional salt mill within the wall that releases sterile pharma-grade aerosolized salt into the room during the treatment. They claim one hour in the salt cave has the healing properties of three days by the sea!
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More than Names
This Remembrance Day, honour these and other locals who never came home
BY CHRIS SELMAN
This Remembrance Day we will gather to reflect on the human cost suffered during Canada’s military conflicts. We will gather at locations across Halton Region, including at George’s Square Veterans’ Wall, the Trafalgar Memorial, or Bronte’s Memorial Park cenotaph in Oakville. In those places of honour we will see the names of local men and women who fought and died in these conflicts.
The number of names can make it difficult to contemplate the very real lives that were lived by those listed, but each name represents a person who laughed, cried and was loved. And some who were tragically lost far too early. Perhaps by sharing their stories, we can strengthen and renew the humanity of the people behind the names. Two such stories are those of George Ramsay and Peter Barnicke, whose names are listed on George’s Square Veterans’ Wall and the Trafalgar Memorial, respectively.
George Ramsay
George Ramsay was born in 1914. He attended Oakville High School and worked at the Oakville Basket Factory. He eventually married his sweetheart, Marjorie. Early in the Second World War he enlisted into the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), serving four years. In 1944, George’s plane disappeared during a training exercise in British Columbia. Despite weeks of fruitless searches, Marjorie remained convinced that he was alive and spent the couple’s entire savings to continue looking. She’s quoted in the Toronto Star as saying “the money is no good without him. I only wish I had more. . .” George’s aircraft was finally found, months later, but with no survivors. Afterwards, a heartbroken Marjorie re-settled in the United States.
38 Look Local Volume 12 | Issue 8
Peter Barnicke
Peter Barnicke was born in Oakville and before enlisting with the RCAF in 1943 at just 17 years of age, he worked at Sheridan Nurseries and loved playing hockey with friends. During the War, Peter earned several medals of valour and was eventually assigned to Tempsford Air Base in England, secretly flying supplies and agents into Nazi-occupied Europe. He was on one of these operations when his plane disappeared in November 1944. Due to the clandestine nature of his missions, it took more than a year before Peter was even listed as missing and more than seven years before his grieved parents received a letter confirming that their son was forever lost somewhere in the North Sea.
NAMES
The names are here, if you look around, In this and every other town. Engraved on brass and carved in stone, Too oft we pass and leave them 'lone'.
In Oakville, let's be more aware Of the listed names in George's Square. Of the sacrifice they represent, That we may live in blithe content.
Yet, all too often we complain, As our fortunes wax and wane, Sometimes each other to berate That we, are not more fortunate.
If, in such times we'd keep in mind That life, for us, has been most kind. For these, their names on tablets found, Would gladly share our daily round.
So look and see, they're not just names Scribed here 'neath stained glass windowpanes. Each was a life, too soon to yield, For a plain white cross in a foreign field.
So, as we live let us remember, And not just now in grey November. Though life may call on us to give, They gave their all, that we, may live.
These are just two stories that detail the sacrifices made by Oakville residents. There are hundreds of others, and all merit acknowledgement. For those interested in learning more, additional stories are shared in Pathway to the Stars, an exhibition commemorating the RCAF’s Centennial. It will be on display at the Oakville Museum, located at 8 Navy Street, until March 2025. Co-curated with local historians Michael Johnson and Terry Murphy, the exhibition centres on the contributions of locals, like George and Peter.
Lest we forget the people behind the names.
Chris Selman is the Curator & Collections Coordinator, Oakville Museum
From one-of-a-kind mugs to elegant vases, pottery is more than just beautiful décor — it's a hands-on way to unleash creativity, relieve stress, and get your hands dirty! Whether you’re throwing clay on a wheel or moulding it by hand, the tactile experience of working with clay has something to offer everyone.
DISCOVER
THE JOYS OF POTTERY
BY LISA EVANS
For kids, the process of turning a lump of clay into a finished piece offers a fun, screen-free way to explore self-expression. “Many young people don’t get the opportunity to work with their hands; everything’s electronic. Coming away from that input to actually working with your hands is something a bit different,” says Yvette Garcia, co-founder of Beyond Pottery in Burlington.
Adults, too, can benefit from pottery’s stress-relieving effects. “Clay is very grounding,” says Garcia. The calming rhythm of moulding clay offers a therapeutic break from the demands of everyday life. “[It allows you to] be present, setting aside distractions and delighting in the process,” says Katia Lemos, Founder of Creative Insight Pottery in Waterdown. Pottery also encourages patience, as the process takes time and care, emphasizing the importance of slowing down and enjoying the creative journey.
“The best thing about clay is that it’s forgiving,” says Michelle Routledge, Owner of Crack Pot Studio in Oakville. “Working with a medium that can be manipulated into so many different forms means that you can quite literally take the stress of the day and create something beautiful from all of your emotions.”
You don’t need to be an artist to enjoy pottery. Local studios in Halton region offer workshops, birthday parties and multi-week programs for all skill levels.
Beginner programs often cover the fundamental tools and techniques of working with clay such as handbuilding, sculpting and wheel throwing. “Clay has a very high skill ceiling but is very beginner friendly,” says Routledge. It’s also a craft you can continue to grow with. “There’s always something new to learn,” says Garcia. Many studios offer multi-week programs at various skill levels, allowing students to continue to explore new techniques in the art form.
Many local studios also offer camps and short workshops where you can spend a few hours creating your piece, then return to the studio a few weeks later to pick up your finished product once it has been fired and dried by studio staff.
Local Links
THE POTTERY SUPPLY HOUSE
1120 Speers Road, Oakville psh.ca
CREATIVE INSIGHT POTTERY
23 Main Street South, Waterdown creativeinsightpottery.com
BEYOND POTTERY
ARTVENTURES
103 Jones Street, Oakville artventuresstudios.com
POTTERY N PAINT CAFE
3228 South Service Road, Burlington beyondpottery.ca
3513 Wyecroft Road Unit H1, Oakville potterynpaintcafe.com
CRACK POT STUDIO
301 Robinson Street, Oakville crackpotstudio.com
Family Bonding
4CATS ART STUDIO
710 Cumberland Avenue, Burlington 4cats.com
HERE ARE A FEW FUN WAYS TO ENJOY POTTERY:
Pottery is a fun way for families to get creative together. Take a Saturday morning family class at Creative Insight Pottery, or dive into their 10-week parent and child program where you’ll make individual and group projects. “It’s a great way to connect,” says Lemos.
Want to hand-make your family Christmas gifts? Crack Pot Studio offers drop-in ceramic painting, perfect for all skill levels — no experience needed. Choose a bisque piece from their shelf, paint it, and the staff will glaze and fire it for you. In seven to 10 days, you'll have a one-of-a-kind creation to keep or gift!
Date Night
If the word “pottery” conjures up visions of Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore from the movie Ghost, you’re onto something — because pottery makes for a fantastic date night! Beyond Pottery offers a couples’ night where you can each make your own masterpiece, or craft something together. These date nights are perfect for beginners looking to have fun and get creative. No experience required!
Social Outing
Bored of dinner and a movie? Pottery is the perfect way to mix things up and get your hands dirty. Creative Insight Pottery offers a wine and pottery class in the evening where students can bring in their own wine, create a hand-built piece and try their hand at the wheel to make a small bowl. “The time on the table with some wine makes it more social, perfect for dates and friends to come together,” says Lemos.
Whether you’re looking to have fun, bond with a partner, or become an expert sculptor, working with clay can be a fun and rewarding experience for everyone.
OWN THE MIC
VENTURE INTO THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF KARAOKE
BY CYNDI INGLE
Singing is not one of my super powers. So, when a friend invited me to an evening of karaoke at a local bar a few years ago, I was tempted to say “maybe next time!” But I summoned up my courage and discovered that singing karaoke wasn’t so scary after all. I sang that night (after a few glasses of wine!) and was hooked. A highlight was when a group of young women danced with abandon, chanting my name, to my rendition of Blondie’s “One Way or Another.” I was a star, at least for a moment in time!
Since then, I’ve sung karaoke at the Royal Canadian Legion, in a private karaoke room in New York City, and at various bars in our area. And while I won’t be winning any Canada’s Got Talent awards, I’ve found the perfect girls’ night out and date night option.
Singing karaoke prodded me out of my comfort zone, increased my confidence, and served as a reminder that I don’t have to be perfect. Life is short (and increasingly tough) and being playful should be embraced, especially during the cold and often depressing winter months.
There are many ways to karaoke locally, including a night at the Legion, karaoke nights at bars and restaurants hosted by dynamic DJs, renting a private room for your group, and singing with a live band. All are waiting to be explored.
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Jane Watson, who hosts the popular Thursday Karaoke in the Lounge at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 60 in Burlington, shares the following tips for first timers and for those who want to feel more comfortable on a karaoke stage:
Come in with a smile and an open mind, and don't take yourself too seriously. Say hi to the host or someone sitting at the next table.
Have fun!
Choose a song that you relate to, not a song you think you should sing.
Watson learned from a mentor, 28 years ago, that it takes three times to nail a song. “The first time, you will be nervous and not used to the lyrics scrolling in front of you while singing,” she says. “Don't fret over missing words. The second time, you will be more relaxed on stage and with reading the lyrics and each time you sing you will feel more confident. You will sing the song much better as you are now finding your groove. The third time is a charm for the same song, or a different song, as you are feeling more comfortable on the stage and probably making eye contact with your friends or the audience.”
The stage is set
Connecting with an audience and feeling the love from the room are tangible results of singing your heart out at karaoke. As Breanna Cordeiro, General Manager of AB Sports Bar explains, community is front and centre during AB’s busy Friday karaoke nights. People from ages 18 to 80 participate in the interactive fun.
“We have a nice community feel and all are welcome,” Cordeiro says. “It’s fun to experience, and our DJ Chris is very good at welcoming and making people feel comfortable.” She adds that AB has karaoke regulars, as well as people who aren’t comfortable singing right away — many of whom show up with a group, watch others sing, and join in later.
“Singing really helps people to get out of their shell, and people get a thrill from being on stage,” Cordeiro says. “After doing it they feel like they want to come back and do it again.”
If you aren’t ready to step on a stage in front of others, or want a more intimate singing experience, renting a private karaoke room is a great option and luckily you don’t have to go to NYC (like I did) to find one!
Game Time Social in Burlington has a private karaoke room that holds up to 10 people.
People using the karaoke room can even order drinks and food in there.
“We want people to feel comfortable,” says Jessica Santacruz, Local Store Marketer for Game Time, “and we have sound proofing in the room, which helps people let loose and lets guests dining in enjoy the other music that plays throughout our venue.”
With so many options for karaoke in our area, what are you waiting for?
Get a few friends together and enjoy a night out that will blast away your winter blues!
Where to Get Your Karaoke On
AB Sports Bar
2000 APPLEBY LINE, BURLINGTON
Karaoke Night, Fridays, hosted by Chris Hazzard 9 pm. – 1:00 am.
ABSPORTSBAR.COM
Black Swan Kitchen Pub
4040 PALLADIUM WAY, BURLINGTON
3420 REBECCA STREET, OAKVILLE
BLKSWAN.CA
Carrigan Arms
Saturday Karaoke Night Party, 9 pm.
2025 UPPER MIDDLE ROAD, BURLINGTON
Karaoke on Fridays, hosted by Randy Moisan 8:30 pm.
CARRIGANARMS.CA
Dickens Pub 423 ELIZABETH STREET, BURLINGTON
Karaoke Night with DJ Robin Hamilton, every Thursday, 10 pm.
THEDICKENS.CA
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The businesses of t h e bronte bia present
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Bronte Market Square
Bronte Market Square
2445 Lakeshore Rd W
2445 Lakeshore Rd W
Live music holiday market
Live music holiday market
Saturday, November 23 3pm to 7pm everyone is welcome!
Saturday, November 23 3pm to 7pm everyone is welcome!
caroling festive activities visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus Tree-Lighting at 5:30pm
caroling festive activities visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus Tree-Lighting at 5:30pm
Christmas in Burlington Handmade Market
More than 75 unique local artisans will showcase their creations, including beautifully handcrafted jewellery, hand-poured candles, organic skincare products, wood crafts, baked goods and treats, home décor, cards, and paintings. Connect with the artisans who pour their love and joy into every piece they create. Free parking. 10 am – 4 pm Holiday Inn Banquet & Conference Centre 3063 South Service Road, Burlington craftadian.ca/burlington
Annual Christmas Bazaar
Check off your shopping list with one-of-a-kind gifts, homemade lunch and baked treats. This fun-filled day will include Christmas Cafe (lunch), children's face painting, and gift stalls where you can buy Advent candles, wreaths, baked goods, preserves, books, CDs, puzzles, crafts, gift baskets, jewellery, purses, poinsettias, and more. Free admission and parking. 9 am - 2 pm Mary Mother of God Church 2745 North Ridge Trail, Oakville mmogp.ca/events NOV 9 NOV 9-10
Crafternoons: Eras
Beads are provided. You provide the friendship! Drop in and make up to three friendship bracelets to either trade with friends or keep for yourself. Swifties welcome! Program capacity varies by branch. Tickets may be used to manage capacity. 2-3 pm
Oakville Public Library, Central Branch 120 Navy Street, Oakville visitoakville.com
NOV 9
Swifties Pottery
Paint Party
Listen to Taylor Swift’s new album ahead of her concerts in Toronto, make some fun Swift themed pottery pieces using exclusive Taylor Swift Silk Screens, make a friendship bracelet and enjoy some sweet snacks! Cost is $10 + hst. All ages welcome! Kids under 16 must be accompanied by a supervising adult painter. 6-8:30 pm
Pottery N Paint Cafe 3513 Wyecroft Road, Oakville potterynpaintcafe.com
9 NOV 10
The Wedding Ring's Oakville
Wedding Expo
Over $15,000 in prizes are up for grabs at the Oakville Wedding Expo, including a honeymoon in the Dominican Republic! FREE TICKETS when you pre-register before midnight Nov 8 (one preregistered ticket is good for your entire group). Or get tickets at the door OR upgrade your Expo experience to VIP! 11 am - 4 pm OE Banquet & Conference Centre 2245 Speers Road, Oakville theweddingring.ca
NOV 14
Culture & CurdsSavour the States
Experience a world of flavour with Culture & Curds! Discover artisanal cheeses from around the globe, perfectly paired with wine, beer, and spirits. Whether you're planning a fun night with friends, a family outing, or a romantic date night, these classes are a delicious and unforgettable experience. 6:30 - 8 pm
On Thursdays, the DMA invites autistic and otherwise neurodivergent visitors to visit for a “Quiet Hour” without large groups or classes. Enjoy a comfortable environment to view the galleries. 9-10 am
Dundas Museum & Archives 139 Park Street West, Dundas dundasmuseum.ca
NOV 15
Light up the Night 2024
Take a stroll and enjoy Downtown Oakville's spectacular holiday lighting! Featuring the CW carolling champions The Sugar Plums. Shop at participating shops, and take a horse and carriage ride around historic Downtown. Visit Santa at his cabin in Centennial Square (Navy and Lakeshore). 5-9 pm Towne Square 94 George Street, Oakville oakvilledowntown.com
NOV 16
St. John’s Christmas Market
Get in the spirit of the season! Join members of your community for crafts, baking, and a bistro at St. John's Anglican Church Christmas Market from 9 am to 2 pm
St. John’s Anglican Church 2464 Dundas Street, Burlington
NOV 16
Aldershot Tree Lighting
Don’t miss the Annual Village Tree Lighting in Aldershot on Plains Road. Lots of family fun for all ages! Featuring HRPS Cram A Cruiser Food Drive in support of the Compassion Society, children’s choir, horse-drawn carriage rides, the James Ferris Band, and a chance to visit Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Start your Christmas shopping at the Vendor’s Market! 3-6 pm
Downsview Plaza (Sun Country Plaza) 355 Plains Road East facebook.com/events/aldershotvillage-bia
NOV 16
Santa Claus Parade 2024
The Oakville Santa Claus Parade has been delighting audiences for 76 years. Each year provides members of the Oakville community with the opportunity to come together and participate or watch, bringing joy to the young and young at heart. 9 am, rain or shine, through Downtown Oakville. oakville.ca
NOV 20
Connon Nurseries Maker's Market
Feeling festive? Head over to Connon Nurseries for an evening market filled with artisans, makers and food creators! 5-8 pm
Write a letter to Santa at Oakville's First Post Office. Tour Erchless Estate, beautifully decorated for Christmases past. Your 30-minute booking is for a visit with Santa in the Coach House. During this time, you will begin with a craft, and then Santa will welcome you for a short visit. 30 minute sessions available between 9 am and 12:30 pm. Ages 3 to 10. Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver.
Oakville Museum Coach House 8 Navy Street, Oakville visitoakville.com
NOV 23
At Home in Bronte for the Holidays
Presented by the businesses of the Bronte BIA, this is your official invitation to bundle up, pack your jingle bells and ring-in the season with friends and neighbours. It’s going to be a treemendously merry time! 3-7 pm
Back with a beat, this Silent Disco night is all about grooving and moving under our twinkly festive tree lights. Rock out at a 60-minute session filled with iconic Christmas tunes, dancing, and pure holiday joy. The Downtown Oakville streets will come alive as visitors jive at this unforgettable event. Reserve your headset today! 5-10 pm Towne Square 94 George Street, Oakville oakvilledowntown.com
Free Festival of
INNER Lights 2024
This year’s Festival is dedicated to the United Nations’ campaign to End Violence against Women. Enjoy an enlightening collective experience, with guided meditation for Mother Earth and other special moments. Featuring joyful live music from Asia and Europe, including Diwali & Christmas carols. Iranian, Turkish, Ukrainian, Romanian, and Indian artists from Canada will be joining from Montreal and York region. Burlington Lions Club 471 Pearl Street, Burlington 100seedsofjoy.com NOV 23 NOV 24
LaSalle
Christmas Market
LaSalle Retirement
Community is pleased to host its annual Christmas market! Support local businesses and shop with a variety of vendors to find the best gifts for the holiday season. When you purchase a handmade Christmas card with original artwork done by the LaSalle Park Retirement community, all proceeds will be donated to Joseph Brant Hospital. A toy drive will also be available in the front foyer with donations being accepted until December 2nd. LaSalle Christmas Market 18 Plains Road West, Burlington
Flamborough
30
Santa Claus Parade
Experience a night of wonder and magic and welcome Santa. The parade starts on Hamilton Street at Rockhaven Lane, and will wind through beautiful downtown Waterdown, ending at the corner of Hamilton Street and Parkside Drive. Starts at 6:30 pm flamboroughsantaclausparade.com
Burlington
Santa Claus Parade
Santa Claus is coming to town on a new route for 2024. The road closure will be roughly 3 kms in length with the parade route starting at the Central Hub (Teen Tour Way). The parade will end on Brant Street at Blairholm Avenue. Bring your letters for Santa, which will be collected by letter carriers from Canada Post along the parade route. burlington.ca
Taste of the Andes
DON’T MISS OUT ON THE PERUVIAN FOOD CRAZE
BY MICHELLE MORRA
Fresh and wild, startling and soothing, every bite of Peruvian food is an adventure on the fork. You can almost feel the wind in your hair and see green fields from a lofty mountain top. As this unique South American cuisine gains worldwide recognition, Halton foodies are catching on.
Oakville opened its first Peruvian restaurant, Machu Picchu, 16 years ago. “Peruvian food is all kinds of things,” says owner Roberto Timoteo. “Ceviche is our signature dish, which is made with either fish or a combination of fish and seafood. We also serve beef dishes, like Lomo Saltado [a Peruvian-Chinese stir-fry], and every Thursday we have a rotisserie special.”
Casa Mia, owned by Gladys Rubatto, intersects fine dining with home made, authentic Peruvian flavours passed down through generations. “Our restaurant is generally bustling, with customers out the door,” Rubatto says.
Because Peru borders the sea, fish and seafood feature prominently. So do melt-in-your-mouth meats. “We are proud of our Peruvian style fish paella, a delightful take on the traditional Spanish dish,” Rubatto says. “However, our traditional dishes also consist of chicken, including the famous pollo a la brasa, and beef stews which are slow cooked and braised”. 77 looklocal.ca
Move over, Paris!
In recent years, the World Travel Awards have repeatedly named Peru a top gastronomic destination.
In 2024, the number one Michelin rated restaurant in the world is Mérito in Lima, Peru.
In 2023, another Lima restaurant, Central, landed the No. 1 spot on the World’s 50 Best list. It a t e r t ti e a South American restaurant received the honour.
Vegetarians, too, can be transported. Casa Mia’s papa a la huancaina, for example, is made with ají amarillo peppers prepared in the Huancayo tradition.
FUSION AT ITS BEST
“Peruvian cuisine is characterized by foods and flavours from a diverse landscape that extends from the Andes to the Pacific coast,” Rubatto says. “These are steeped in rich tradition and history.”
That history spans 7000 years and multiple waves of migration. The Incas’ cuisine took on new ingredients when the Spanish took over the Empire in 1533. As of the 16th century, African slaves had their own influence on meals. Arab, Chinese, and Japanese migration to Peru in the 19th century introduced a host of new flavours and cooking methods.
POPULAR PALATE PLEASERS
Peruvian food is all about contrasts. Chefs playfully pair hot and cold, crunchy and soft, robust and delicate. Potato, cassava or plantain temper the tangy and acidic blends of onions, peppers and citrus. Here are some classics:
Aji De Gallina
This traditional Peruvian chicken stew is the ultimate comfort food. Its base is shredded poached chicken in a creamy, savoury sauce spiced with Aji Amarillo chili pepper.
Ceviche
Traditional ceviche consists of bite-sized pieces of raw fresh fish or shrimp, marinated in lemon, bitter orange and/or key lime juice that “cooks” the food with its acidity. Peruvian ceviche is served with sliced onions and chilis, sweet potato, and crunchy toasted corn.
Modern chefs offer myriad twists on ceviche. Machu Picchu’s menu features hearts of palm or artichokes as vegetarian ceviche options that deliver the same party in your mouth.
Our latestaddition here at the Gourmet Market,offering a retail cheese-a-licious selection of local & European cheeses. Elevate Your Entertaining!
PREPARED MEALS • LOCAL HANDCRAFTED APPETIZERS • SMALL BATCHES & SHAREABLES DESSERTS • SOUPS, SALADS & SANDWICHES
GOURMET BREADS & SPREADS, DIPS, SAUCES & OILS HOMEMADE PASTA • CHARCUTERIE & FINE CHEESES
Tues to Fri 10-6, Saturday 9:30-4:30
Empanadas
A Peruvian empanada (hand-held meatpie) usually contains seasoned ground meat, hard boiled eggs, raisins, black olives, and caramelized onions, all enveloped in a flaky crust sprinkled with powdered sugar and lime.
Pollo a la brasa
Rotisserie chicken is incredibly popular in Peru thanks to its crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. The seasonings usually have soya sauce at their base and may include balsamic vinegar or lime juice, garlic, honey, peppers. Timoteo serves polla a la brasa with cilantro sauce and cassava fries.
Pisco Sour (cocktail)
A toast to your health and happiness! This quintessentially Peruvian drink is made of pisco (a type of brandy), lime juice, sugar, bitters, and egg white.
Mazamorra Morada (dessert)
This sweet pudding is made of purple corn and fruit, spiced with cinnamon and cloves. Mazamorra is deep purple (morada) and has an exotic blackberry flavour.
Folks like Rubatto and Timoteo are passionate about sharing the joys of Peruvian food in a comfortable, homey atmosphere. “What we wanted was for people to feel like they are stopping by a friend’s home,” Rubatto says. “A friend who happened to be an exceptional chef!”
Elevate your space
with Canadian artwork.
AGB Shop
1333 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington
Phone: 905.632.7796 ext. 301
Shop Hours:
Tuesday - Sunday: 10 am - 5 pm Monday: Closed
Purchase in-store or online at agb.life/shop
Victoria Pearce, Take the Long View
Support Burlington’s arts community with a night of indulgence.
It’s the Art Gallery of Burlington’s most ambitious fundraising initiative of the year, generating vital funds that support our programs and keeps us free admission.
Purchase your tickets at agb.life/revel
Featuring: Omar Badrin, Night Terror , 2020. LED neon and plexiglass.
