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Scouts of Canada: A Breath of Fresh Air For Kids of All Ages

September 12, 2023 No Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Venturer Scouts begin building the knowledge and skills for career development, as well as participate in outdoor adventures, weekend events, extended hikes, leave-no-trace camping, spiritual reflection, community service and more.

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

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

by Denise Davy

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Refresh Your Interior This Fall With Paint

September 8, 2023 No Comments

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

Hot Colour Trends

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

What Paint Should I Buy?

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

Tips for a Flawless Room

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

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

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

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

by Julie Achtermeier

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Pickleball: The Sport for Everyone

September 6, 2023 No Comments

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

What exactly is pickleball?

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

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

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

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

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

Where to play

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

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

Why pickleball is the trendiest game in town

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

Get started:

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

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

by Lisa Thornbury

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Local Tutors in Oakville and Burlington

September 4, 2023 No Comments

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

Take a long-term approach

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

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

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

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

Tutoring isn’t one size fits all

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

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

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

Time commitment

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

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

Budgeting for tutoring

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

by Lisa Evans

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Kerr Village Welcomes You This Fall

September 1, 2023 No Comments

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

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

Enjoy the best of fall in Kerr Village

As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, it’s an ideal time to enjoy a day or evening outside. And, Kerr Village is a perfect setting. Here, you can take in the urban street vibe, then head for a walk in nature. After all, Kerr Street is only a stone’s throw from Lake Ontario. After shopping and grabbing a bite, you can continue south, by foot, to Tannery Park where wooded trails and a boardwalk along Lake Ontario await. If you’re up for a longer stroll, continue east across the bridge on Lakeshore Road to downtown Oakville or, alternatively, turn west for a scenic walk toward Coronation Park. For an activity with less exertion (or if the weather isn’t quite so cooperative), consider a movie at the independently owned theatre, Film.ca, located a short distance from Kerr Street.

Celebrate the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids in September

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Shops in Kerr Village

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

Wared Restaurant

438 Kerr Street
wared.ca

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

Mary’s Muffins

326 Kerr Street
marysmuffins.com

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

Country Road of Canada

119 Kerr Street
country-road-of-canada-inc.business.site

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

Wet Coffee

111 Kerr Street
wetcoffeecommunity.com

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

Anna Cakes

46 Lakeshore Road West
cakebyanna.ca

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

Top Tier Company

143 Kerr Street
toptiercompany.ca

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

My Back Shed

131 Kerr Street
mybackshed.com

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

by Danielle Leonard

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Shop Local: Fall in Love with Kerr Village

August 30, 2023 No Comments

Dove + Arrow

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

doveandarrowshop.com

Farmhouse Artisan Cheese

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

farmhouseartisancheese.com

Vereda Central

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

veredacentral.ca

The Sweetest Thing

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

thesweetestthing.com

The Kind Matter Company

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

thekindmattercompany.com

Il était une fois

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

iletait1fois.ca

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Paddle Board vs. Kayak: Choose Your Ride

July 24, 2023 No Comments

When it comes to getting out on the water this summer, two popular water sports stand out: kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP).

I took up kayaking when my kids were young. At the time, it was less “sport” and more “escape.” Never underestimate the paddle power of a mom looking for an hour of solitude.

More recently I tried stand-up paddle boarding. After a few spectacular backflips (to the delight of those watching from the beach), I eventually got the hang of it. However, even if you feel like a pro, never brag about how easy it is. If you do, an unexpected wave will come for you. Your sunglasses will end up at the bottom of Lake Ontario and your husband will mutter, “I told you so,” under his breath.

A friend asked me if I had to choose SUP or kayaking, which would it be? First of all, what kind of question is that? That’s the Sophie’s Choice of water sports. I adore them both equally. Each has unique characteristics and are the perfect way to explore nature and move your body.

Fortunately, we don’t need to make such a difficult choice. There are plenty of opportunities to try both. So let’s dive into the exhilarating world of SUP and kayaking and compare their level of exercise, speed, learning curve, cost and a few local paddling spots.

Exercise level

SUP engages your entire body, especially your core (and muscles you never even knew existed). The constant balancing act on the board adds an element of stability training. Kayaking provides an excellent upper body workout, focusing on your arms, back and shoulders. Exertion levels for both sports can vary from intense, depending on how hard you paddle, to downright leisurely. FYI… it’s easier to pack (and conceal) a book and a bag of chips in a kayak versus a SUP.

Speed

Kayaks are designed for efficient gliding through the water, allowing you to cover more distance in less time. Stand-up paddle boarding, though not generally as quick, allows for a pace that’s perfect for taking in the surrounding scenery and enjoying a more relaxed experience on the water.

Learning Curve

Both SUP and kayaking have relatively easy entry points, but do require some degree of technique. You may need a bit more practice to find your balance (tell me about it) and develop a comfortable stance on your SUP.

“SUP has taken the world by storm for very good reason,” says Maria Gerow from Burlington Beach Rentals. “It offers a unique vantage point to see into the waters below you and allows you to explore almost any waterway with ease.”

Balance is less of a concern when kayaking, making it more accessible for beginners. Inflatable kayaks, though more affordable and easier to store and transport, can be more sluggish in the water and trickier to handle than hard kayaks.

Cost

SUPs and kayaks can vary in price, depending on the quality and features. Both sports offer rental options, which can be a more affordable way to “test the waters” before purchasing your own equipment.

“With all things water, have fun, but be safe,” says AJ Leeming, senior manager, programs & services Conservation Halton. “Have a plan, always tell someone you’re going out, and have the proper equipment to do so safely so you can do it all again another day.”

Note to self:

Order one of those buoyant sunglass holder neck-straps and a waterproof phone pouch.

Local Spots

Oakville
Coronation Park, Busby Park, Bronte Public Boat Launch and Shipyard Park Boat Ramp are popular launching locations, with SUP rentals available nearby at Oakville-based Paddle Sport Performance.

Burlington
Launch from Spencer Smith or Lasalle Park, or join the local paddle club and take out a high quality SUP on Burlington Beach.

Port Credit
Port Credit Marina and the waterfront parks along Lakeshore Road are popular, with SUP and kayak rentals at Paddle On and Port Credit Adventure Rentals nearby.

Halton Conservation Areas
Kelso offers kayak and SUP rentals. Area 8 offers canoe and kayak rentals that include a life jacket and safety kit. Bring your own kayak or SUP to launch at Mountsberg Dam.

By Lisa Thornbury

Local Links

Burlington Beach Rentals

Burlington Beach Rentals

Conservation Halton Boating

Conservation Halton Boating

Paddle Sport Performance, Oakville
pspsupspecialists.com

Sail, Burlington
sail.ca

MEC, Burlington
MEC.ca

Decathlon, Burlington
decathlon.ca

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Wine and Seafood: An Easy Pairing Guide

July 20, 2023 No Comments

Struggling to figure out what wine to open with your seafood dish? Although white wine does pair very well with fish, it’s a little more complicated than that. Not all white wines taste the same, and “fish” could mean anything from salmon to scallops.

It’s a good idea to consider the texture and flavour of the fish you’re eating when choosing a wine. However, if the sauce is the most prominent flavour on the plate, then use the sauce as your guide. Some types of fish are delicate, light, and flaky while others are practically steak. Therefore, the intensity of the wine should match the texture of the fish.

So, while whites generally rule, reds, rosés and sparkling do have their place. The below wine types (and their pairing ideas) should help you navigate your way through your next seafood and wine pairing.

Sparkling Wine

Any reasonably dry sparkling wine is spot-on perfect for fried food. Most wines lose something when you pair them with tempura or a thick beer batter. Not so with sparkling wine; its bubbles and crisp acids cut through the weight of fried food as if the wines were made for the dish. These wines also pair well with oysters, scallops and shrimp salad.

Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris

These are the aristocrats of white fish wines. Dry, austere and crisp, chenin blanc and pinot gris are the wines to reach for when serving lean, white fish cooked simply. Flounder, halibut, walleye, snapper, raw clams, or oysters all do well with these wines. Alternatively, you can use these wines to cut through the natural fat in some fish, such as striped bass, catfish, lobster or mussels.

Chardonnay, Fumé Blanc, Viognier

Chardonnay pairs well with salmon, bass, crab, raw oysters and lobster. The theory here is to match a full-bodied wine with a full-bodied dish. If you have a broth-based soup, chardonnay works wonderfully. If you have a fish that’s a little oilier, such as mackerel, try viognier.

Pinot Noir, Gamay, Chianti

There are precious few instances where you’d want a big red with seafood, but light reds can pair quite well with salmon, tuna, marlin, swordfish, mackerel, bluefish, or other fatty, meaty, big-flavoured fish. Pro tip: avoid combining reds with spicy seafood, as you are likely to get a nasty metallic taste.

Rosé

Rosé wines are great when a dish’s sauce is heavier than what a white would call for, but not quite right for a full-on red. Rosés can substitute for full-bodied whites such as chardonnay and fumé blanc. Consider them when grilling tuna steaks.

By Carmelo Giardina

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Summer Tips for Seafood Grilling

July 17, 2023 No Comments

Summer is the perfect time to introduce more fish and seafood into your outdoor grilling lineup. As barbecues are primed and ready, you should be too.

Morsel for morsel, each bite of seafood offers tender, succulent flavours that satisfy your hunger as well as your nutritional needs. Not only do you gain the dietary benefits from noshing on fish and seafood, you also achieve the bonus of eating tasty proteins that go easy on the waistline.

Generally, meatier fish and seafood is best on an outdoor grill as you don’t want flakes of fish falling onto your coals. Think shrimp, lobster, tuna, salmon and meatier white fish varieties such as cod, halibut or swordfish.

Look for fish that has its skin intact as that makes the grilling process easier and reduces the odds of the fish falling apart. Also, says Dave Rihbany of Dave’s Fish Market in Burlington, don’t forget to oil the grill before laying down your fish as that will prevent it from sticking. If the grill feels too intimidating, place the fish on foil and then on the barbecue. That will save it from falling in.

What makes summertime the key time to expand your protein repertoire is the simple matter of availability. Certain types of fish and seafood are only available now so if you want maximum freshness and flavour, summer is the time to try it. “Getting stuff in season like fresh halibut and fresh salmon is good now because it’s not always available all year round,” says Shane R., a fishmonger at Whole Foods in Oakville.

The Mermaid and the Oyster in Kerr Village is a long-time favourite for its daily selection of fresh seafood, as well as a mouth-watering menu of seafood dishes for dine-in or takeout. And, if you want to bring an east coast-inspired oyster bar to your backyard BBQ get together, this is the place.

When seasoning your fish and seafood, the experts often prefer simplicity. Shane suggests salt and pepper, fresh lemon juice and perhaps a dash of Cajun or blackening rub. “When it comes to white fish, you can use whatever seasoning you like as the fish is so mild it will take on the flavour profiles of what you use.”

To widen your fish and seafood experience, Rihbany recommends trying multiple cooking methods in one go. “I like a mixed grill,” says Rihbany, who’s been a fishmonger for 40 years. “Pick a piece with sauce and try a piece with nothing on it. I like to make kebobs with tuna, swordfish and shrimp.”

When it comes to selecting fish and seafood, stay away from discoloured flesh, dried or dehydrated skin or meat. Disregard product that has black spots because that means it has aged before it was frozen. “You don’t want it sitting out in the open air all day,” says Rihbany. “And I don’t recommend discounted fish.”

Fish is a quick-cooking protein so engaging in a 15-minute chat with a neighbour while cooking may not be a good idea. Depending on your taste, fish does not need to be fully cooked and some people actually prefer it when it’s a little translucent in the centre. But Shane cautions against serving fish, especially wild fish, that is too underdone. “With wild varieties there’s a risk of parasites and bacteria if you eat it too raw. Any raw fish would run that risk, but typically wild varieties are more prone to it.”

One of the big draws of seafood is its perceived health benefits. It’s low in fat, high in protein and a great source of Omega-3 DHA essential fatty acids. Other health benefits in seafood are derived from vitamins A and D, which are found in fish liver oils, as well as high levels of the B complex vitamins, particularly niacin, B-12 and B-6. It’s also a perfect protein for gluten-free diners and those following reduced gluten diets.

So fire up the grill, give the traditional burgers and hot dogs a pass, and experiment with seafood this summer. You won’t be disappointed.

By Kelly Putter

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The Swim Spa: A Pool For Year-Round Dips

July 13, 2023 No Comments

You may not be able to perform cannonballs or run around the deck screaming Marco Polo, but the swim spa may be the next best thing to the backyard swimming pool. It combines a swimming pool’s fitness benefits with a hot tub’s hydrotherapy. And while the swim spa may be perceived as a backyard luxury item, it is considerably less expensive than putting in an inground pool and can accommodate any size yard.

Swim spas contain a jet system allowing you to swim in place, eliminating the need to do laps in a full-size pool. The movement of the water creates a counter-current to mimic the sensation of swimming in the river or ocean so you can exercise within a much smaller area. The jet system also provides the relaxation and therapy of a hot tub with the ability to adjust the temperature within a few hours. Hydrotherapy delivers deep relaxation to muscles, promotes stress reduction, and helps reduce the symptoms of chronic pain conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. With a swim spa, you can improve your physical and mental well-being all in one system.

Not All Swim Spas are Created Equal

If you search “swim spa” on the internet, you will see a long list of options and styles, including their ability to be used year-round. “All-weather pools are designed and built for the Canadian climate. Not all swim spas are,” says Aaron Pilon, VP of sales and marketing at Arctic Spas. “Pools must be tested for long durations and consider fluctuating temperatures, not just extreme cold. Not all manufacturers understand the Canadian winter.”

It’s not unusual in Ontario to see -20 C one week and above zero the next. A pool system not designed and insulated properly will not protect against fluctuating temperatures, causing materials to expand and contract. Over time, this can damage the pool causing costly repairs.

The design and fit of the cover also play a critical role in maintaining the pool temperature in winter and help keep energy costs
down.

Choosing Your Perfect Spa

Swim spas come in various sizes and styles, but choosing one can be complicated without some helpful guidelines. If you’re researching a swim spa for your family, consider these tips:

• Clarify what exercises you can do in the swim spa. Some models can install rowing bars or require a tether to keep you in place while swimming. Also, understand what can be adjusted, such as the resistance of the water current, the jets’ water pressure, and the pool’s jet arrangement.

• “Be sure to inquire about the pool’s construction and how it is designed for the Canadian climate,” says Pilon. “A good salesperson will walk you through the design of the pool, not just its features.” Also, ask about the heating system and how long you can expect the pool to take when heating to hot tub temperatures.

• Consider pool maintenance and whether there’s a self-regulating saltwater option. Traditional chemicals can cost both time and money. Do filters need to be changed, and how often? Ask where the swim spa is made and the manufacturer’s warranty, and check Google reviews.

A swim spa may be the perfect addition to your backyard offering unending outdoor family fun, a full-body workout and a therapeutic soak any time of year.

By Julie Achtermeier