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Time To Tee Up! A Guide to Local Golf Courses

May 19, 2023 No Comments

As Canadians, we reluctantly accept that we have long winters and too-short summers. And it means we all understand that we have to pack in as much outdoor activity as we can in the summer months. So as the first spring shoots poke through in the garden and the ice and snow finally melt away, we are READY….. to spend some time lingering in the sun on a patio, open the pool, clean up the yard, make the first trip to the cottage, and if you are a golfer, to dust off the clubs and get out there for the first round of the season.

We are fortunate in Halton to have an amazing selection of great public golf courses to choose from, all within a 45-minute drive of home. They offer a vast diversity of terrain and degree of difficulty, so you can choose to experience them all, or pick a couple of favourites and focus on those.

If you are planning to play a lot this season, then it will make sense to take advantage of a coupon book. For example, the Greens Fee Passport available from www.golfpassport.com offers savings at 170 golf facilities in Ontario and upstate New York. Golf Fore All is another program that offers savings at about 120 courses in Ontario (www.golfforeall.ca). You will find the savings from these programs usually pay for the upfront cost within a couple of rounds.

Most golf courses in Ontario offer discounts for seniors playing on weekdays. Make sure to call ahead or do your research online, and book your tee times early. The popularity of the game has surged since the pandemic, and it may be difficult to get the tee time of your choice at
many courses.

With so many great local courses to choose from, it is not easy to pick our favourites. But here are a few courses we recommend. You won’t be disappointed at any of them.

Tee it up and have fun this summer!

Carlisle Golf Club

523 Carlisle Road, Carlisle
Kaneffgolf.com/golf/courses/carlisle

Part of the Kaneff Golf group, in the beautiful area between Carlisle and Kilbride. A cozy collection of three nine-hole courses, with rolling greens, tall pine trees, and generous fairways. This is a shot-maker’s course, so accuracy is key. Watch out for the signature 6th hole on the North course, a par 5 with a dog leg to the right and a very narrow fairway. Lots of balls have been lost in the farmer’s field to the left of the fairway!

Lowville Golf Club

2662 Brittania Road, Burlington
Lowvillegolf.com

In the picturesque village of Lowville, locally owned and operated, this 18-hole course is built into the side of the Escarpment. It may be helpful to have one leg longer than the other as you will need to play lots of side of hill shots! You can drive a mile from the long downhill par 5’s, but be prepared for a good workout if you choose to walk this course. The sunset views across the valley on a summer evening are spectacular.

Mount Nemo Golf Club

5377 Walkers Line, Burlington
Mountnemogolfclub.ca

Formerly known as Indian Wells, this 18-hole championship course is in a spectacular setting beneath the towering cliffs of Mount Nemo, with beautiful views from many of the holes. This is a challenging course with water hazards on 6 of the holes on the front 9, and narrow fairways and mature forests on the back 9.

Hidden Lake Golf Club

1137 # 1 Side Road, Burlington
Hiddenlake.clublink.ca

Just north of Burlington, and now part of the Clublink family, Hidden Lake has been in operation for over 60 years, and offers two distinct 18-hole championship courses. The Old Course is a more traditional tree-lined course with small greens, that allows glimpses of the “hidden lake” on the 16th and 17th holes. The New Course has larger greens, more generous fairways, and plenty of water.

Burlington Springs Golf & Country Club

5235 Cedar Springs Road, Burlington
Burlingtonsprings.com

This is a great course to play early in the season. The gently rolling fairways drain well, and they pride themselves on offering great value and a challenging experience for novice and experienced golfers alike. The back 9 is a bit more challenging than the front.

Oakville Executive Golf Course

4414 Fourth Line, Oakville
Oakvillegolf.ca

Located just north of Oakville, Angel’s View is a 9-hole regulation length course, and Mystic Ridge is a shorter 18-hole par 63 course. Both are ideal to introduce new players to the game and the par 3 is perfect for kids just starting out. Choose your club carefully on the 9th hole heading back to the club house – the hydro wires cross the fairway and present an interesting additional hazard!

Mystic Golf Club

1707 Jerseyville Road West, Ancaster
Golfnorth.ca/mystic

Located not far off the 403, just beyond Ancaster, is this very different and special gem. Set in beautiful countryside with no houses to be seen, this Tom Pearson designed course offers a unique wide-open experience for the serious passionate golfer. Most notable is the 10th hole – a par 6 (not a typo) which requires you to hit over 3 ravines! Beautifully maintained, carts only.

King’s Forest Golf Club

100 Greenhill Avenue, Hamilton
Hamilton.ca/things-do/golf-hamilton

Owned and operated by the City of Hamilton, and located in the picturesque Red Hill Valley at the foot of the Escarpment, this municipal course is long and challenging. There are some terrific elevated tee shots, lots of interesting dogleg holes, and six holes requiring you to navigate the Red Hill Creek which traverses the course.

By David Mosley and Tim Root

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Our Local Chambers of Commerce: A Vital Community Resource

May 18, 2023 No Comments

Look Local is a small business headquartered in Downtown Oakville, and we’ve been riding the entrepreneurial rollercoaster for about ten years now, navigating the ups and downs as best we can. Along the way there have been many lessons, successes, failures, and more challenges than we could list; but one of the best things we did when we started this business was join the local Chambers of Commerce. Like anything, you get what you put into it – but if you’re currently operating a local business, or thinking of starting one – joining your local Chamber of Commerce is a must.

“Joining and engaging with your local Chamber opens up a vast network and opportunity to tap into support that is unique to your business needs”, says France Fournier, President and CEO of the Oakville Chamber. One of the primary benefits of joining the Chamber is access to networking opportunities. Both the Oakville and Burlington Chambers host regular events and meet ups where members can connect with other local businesses and build relationships. This can be especially valuable for small businesses looking to expand their customer base or establish partnerships with other businesses.

However, don’t expect to join your local Chamber and sit back and relax while the business pours in. You still have to be engaged, and participate – even if networking is outside your comfort zone. The best ROI on your membership often comes indirectly; a tip from a fellow local business, knowledge of a business grant you can apply to, or simply a referral from one business to another.

In addition to networking opportunities, the Chambers offer a variety of resources and services to their members. This includes access to educational resources and training programs. “All our members are different, so there is no one reason why they join. It’s always a combination of our three pillars; connecting leaders, active advocacy and educational opportunities”, says Terry Caddo, President and CEO of the Burlington Chamber. Both the local Chambers offer monthly educational sessions, such as social media best practices, key steps to starting a small business, networking 101, and so on.

On a larger scale, the Chambers of Commerce also play a vital role in advocating for the interests of their members on a local, provincial, and federal level, giving businesses a voice in the community and beyond. Both the Oakville and Burlington Chambers are part of the Ontario Chamber network, which has a direct line to Queen’s Park. They advocate for everything from business tax rates to summer student programs, and are often the unsung heroes of the business community. The trickle-down effect of these efforts is a vibrant business community, and in case this is your first time reading Look Local, that’s something we care about passionately! Without local businesses, in particular the small businesses that are independently owned and operated, our communities would not be the wonderful places to live that they are today.

Ready to learn more about your local Chamber of Commerce? The best way to get started is to attend a networking event, or an open house. Find out more at oakvillechamber.com or burlingtonchamber.com and see you at the next event!

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Shop Local: Find Something Local for Dad this Father’s Day

May 17, 2023 No Comments

Flourish & Bask

This stainless steel bar tool set is the perfect addition to dad’s home bar. These high-quality tools are displayed in a perfectly compact wooden holder that compliments traditional and modern décor.

Oakville
Flourishandbask.ca

Lakeside Livin’

Find your grillmaster an awesome apron along with a large selection of condiments and other bbq related gift ideas at lakeside livin’ in bronte village!

Oakville
Lakesidelivin.com

Bos & Co.

Get dad off on the right foot with on foot shoes, a new men’s brand that is lightweight and super flexible. Made in spain.

Burlington
ca.Bosandco.com

Nicety’s

Made for ‘cheers’ by the pool and toasts on the rooftop, this glassware is virtually unbreakable & totally dishwasher safe all carefully crafted with the incredible shine and clarity of crystal sapphire polycarbonate, these look good on any table.

Oakville
Shop.Nicetys.com

Urban Vine

Good olive oil makes a great gift! Create your own unique sample set of fresh olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars, including flavours like the outrageously delicious aged honey ginger white balsamic, or the spicy cayenne extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for the foodie dad.

Dundas
Urbanvineinc.com

Tundra Leather

These handmade leather golf accessories are beautifully crafted by hand, right in downtown hamilton.

Hamilton
Tundraleather.ca

Joshua Creek Furniture

These exquisite charcuterie boards, hand crafted by rustic designs by rich, are available in a variety of sizes, colours and styles at joshua creek furniture.

Oakville
Joshuacreekfurniture.com

Rustic Daisy’s

Take your pancake breakfast to a whole new level with bourbon barrel aged maple syrup by wabanaki. The perfect gift for any dads with a sweet tooth!

Waterdown
Rusticdaisys.Wordpress.com

Tradition Dolls & Watches

Give dad the ultimate vintage timepiece with this heavy pocket watch circa 1883. This restored example has a hunter style case containing five ounces of silver.

Oakville
Traditiondolls.com

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Watch Dad Cook Like a Pro With These Trendy Kitchen Appliances

May 16, 2023 No Comments

It’s no secret that dads love their tools. But tools aren’t just useful in the garage for fixing bikes. We’ve rounded up some of the best kitchen gadgets Dad is sure to love. Infuse a little tech and watch Dad whip up pub style french fries in the air fryer, the juiciest steak on the BBQ and weekend breakfast like he’s a sous chef.

An Air Fryer

Cooking is the art of patience, but not if you have an air fryer. This trendy kitchen gadget uses rapid hot air technology to cook food faster and allows you to cook Dad’s favourite pub style fries and chicken tenders in minutes. While an oven typically requires 10 minutes to heat up, an air fryer doesn’t require any pre-heating. Food comes out crunchy and golden every time.

A Sous Vide

Pronounced “sue-veed” meaning “under vacuum” in French, this method of cooking has been used in high end restaurants for years and is now available to home cooks. Sous Vide consists of vacuum sealing food in a bag, then cooking it to a precise temperature in water. Perfect for cooking vegetables, fish or meat, you can attach the sous vide device to any pot, add water and drop in your food in a vacuum sealed bag or glass jar. Using precise temperature control, the food cooks in its own juices making it moist, tender and juicy. For those who enjoy a little kitchen tech, Anova has a sous vide device with bluetooth technology allowing you to monitor your food’s progress through the Anova Culinary App that sends notifications to your smartphone to tell you when your food is ready.

A Breakfast Sandwich Maker

Let Dad be the breakfast hero. No more weekend morning drives to McDonald’s. The Hamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker delivers a hot and hearty breakfast sandwich in just five minutes. Use an English muffin, bagels or pancake as your bread, add your egg, cheese and precooked meat. Top your egg with a second slice of bread, close and in five minutes you’ll have a delicious breakfast sammie at home.

A Waffle Maker

Your weekend mornings will never be the same again. Get a fresh, delicious restaurant quality waffle from the comfort of your own home. We like the Chef’s Choice WafflePro Classic Belgian 840B. Its customizable settings allow you to choose your brownness settings and adjust for a crisp exterior, moist interior or uniform texture, delivering your perfect waffle. Top with fresh fruit and whipped cream and enjoy!

An Ice Cream Maker

Make dad the king of desserts with an ice cream maker. Whip up a delicious batch of ice cream using cream, milk, sugar and the fruit or flavour of your choice. One bonus, other than ice cream at your fingertips of course, is that you can be in control of your ingredients and accommodate family members’ dietary concerns. We particularly enjoy the Ninja Creami, a slightly more expensive ice cream maker that makes a smooth ice cream similar in texture to a Dairy Queen Blizzard and can also make gelato, milkshake and smoothie bowls.

The MEATER+ Smart Meat Thermometer

For the grill master who enjoys a little tech, simply stick this smart cooking accessory into your steak or chicken, delivering a perfectly cooked meal every time. The Meater+ is a completely wireless meat thermometer and sends notifications to your phone when your food is ready.

The Grillbot Automatic Grill Cleaning Robot

We can probably all agree that the worst part about cooking is the clean up. The Grillbot is essentially a Roomba for your barbeque. Its electric motors power its wire brushes and propel it across your grill, sounding an alarm to let you know when it’s finished.

Armed with all these amazing tools, you might need an extra cupboard in the kitchen to house them all, but Mum may never need to cook a meal again! Happy cooking!

By Lisa Evans

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Prince Edward County: Old-World Tradition Meets Modern Living

May 15, 2023 No Comments

Prince Edward County, an island in Lake Ontario with 800 km of shoreline and nine villages, has a history rooted in farming, agriculture, and trade-through waterways. Today, the County is home to artists, winemakers, chefs, entrepreneurs, and people with a flair for hospitality.

At the centre of the County are small towns such as Picton, Bloomfield, and Wellington – alive with activity as visitors take in the shops, restaurants and main strip. In the outskirts lie acres of farmland and the tiny, quiet towns of Ameliasburgh and Sophiasburg. The South Shore, and North and South Marysburgh are known for agricultural delights and craft beverages. Of course, the County is also home to Sandbanks Provincial Park, the world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation, along with its fabulous beaches and campsites.

There’s so much to explore in Prince Edward County, from quiet retreats to live shows and entertainment. Whatever your pleasure, there is something for everyone.

If it’s theatre you love, The Eddie features a pre-show picnic dinner at the iconic 1860s Red Barn as the setting for an evening of entertainment. The 78-acre farm is located between Wellington and Bloomfield and features a pond, orchards, gardens, access to the Millennium Trail, and newly decorated suites. It is also home to the Wellington Farmers’ Market, which takes place on Saturdays from 9am to 1:30pm from May 13th until the end of October. For a list of shows throughout the season, visit www.countystage.ca.

A wedding on the horizon? Compass Rose is a unique wedding venue in the heart of Prince Edward County’s wine country. They offer wedding options for small groups or up to 2,000 people in their modern barn, farmhouse, greenhouse, and two outdoor ceremony sites. Wedding packages include two nights of accommodation in their elegant farmhouse that sleeps up to 12 people.

Reconnecting to the simplicity of the world around us is a rewarding experience when visiting the Fronterra Farm, a waterfront farm located on the legendary Hillier soils. Explore a healthier, sustainable lifestyle reconnecting to food while vacationing in their luxury prospector tents, complete with a summer kitchen and ensuite bathroom. The last three years during the pandemic provided the owner, Jens Burgen, an opportunity to open a farm-based forest school to plant flowers and botanicals for an elemental spa.

Accommodations in Prince Edward County range from rustic elegance to modern sophistication, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit.

For a homey camping or cottage experience, Ray’s Cottages are tucked onto the shores of West Lake, near Wellington and Bloomfield. The four-acre campground was purchased in 2019 by Nic and Alexia Conley, a local couple who grew up in Wellington and have a personal connection to the business. “Our vision for the property was a relaxed, pet-friendly vacation experience,” Alexia says. “When guests pull in, we want them to feel like they are returning to their summer cottage.” The Conleys provide cottages fully equipped with all the amenities (BBQ, fridge, stove, coffee maker, toaster) to create a natural cottage experience their guests want to return to again and again.

The Everly Inn Bed & Breakfast overlooks breathtaking farm fields and meadows and offers a rest haven for visitors. Located next to two regional wineries, guests can enjoy a quiet getaway or combine their stay with wine tours and tastings. The Inn’s spacious lounge is ideal for morning coffee or an evening cocktail, or guests can retreat to their suite and private patio for a more intimate stay. The Inn offers contemporary comfort with an innovative design providing environmentally sustainable and renewable energy heating and cooling practices to create a net-zero emission stay experience. How on trend!

For those who enjoy staying on the main strip, The Royal can be found on Main Street in Picton with two neighbouring buildings: The Hotel, with classic accommodations, and The Annex, with its Scandi-inspired studios for longer stays. The Royal is ideally suited for families or groups of friends wishing to gather in town and enjoy the many amenities Picton has to offer. The Royal provides a quiet refuge at the end of the day with a peaceful library, swimming pool, and private terrace for guests.

Adult-only destination-seekers looking for a uniquely modern experience can find stunning architectural design at Mirazule, a newly constructed lakeside inn offering luxury-hosted accommodation on 45 private acres. Be transported away by its intimate, contemporary surroundings and leave refreshed and ‘County chilled.’ Mirazule is located on South Bay, just 15 minutes from Picton and 30 minutes from Sandbanks and Wellington, and is surrounded by award-winning wineries.

Don’t leave the County without visiting The Local Store in Picton! The unique building is a restored dairy barn built in the 19th century and houses many local products and décor. Original works of art from local artisans and indigenous artists are fondly displayed in The Loft Gallery, along with sweet and savoury treats to enjoy. While there, don’t forget to check out The Hayloft Antique Store and the Silks Vintage Room.

Prince Edward County is about a 3 hour drive from Oakville or Burlington, and once you get through Toronto, it’s an easy journey eastbound along the 401. Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend or a week’s vacation, it is worth the drive.

by Julie Achtermeier

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All The World’s A Stage: Why You Should Join A Local Community Theatre Group

May 12, 2023 No Comments

In an era when so much of our entertainment is delivered digitally, there is something incredibly refreshing and wholesome about live theatre and live musical performances. Fortunately for us, there is a thriving network of locally owned and volunteer run community theatre groups in our area. It’s easy to get involved and volunteers are always needed. And it’s not just the actors and musicians you see on stage – live theatre requires directors, set and stage construction and design, marketing and “front of house” management, and so much more.

What are the benefits of
getting involved? Obviously if you love to act, sing, dance and perform, then participating will provide a creative outlet and a chance for you to express yourself in a supportive environment. Live theatre may also help you build self-confidence and self-esteem, and enable you to perfect new skills that will help in all aspects of your life. You are likely to make new friends with similar interests, and feel good about being involved in community life. Most of all, it is FUN, fulfilling and enriching.

If you are interested in finding out more, here are a few local theatre groups to consider.

Koogle Theatre Company, Burlington

Koogletheatre.com

The KooGle Theatre Company was established in 2007 by founders Leslie and Christopher Gray, who had been performing professionally across Ontario for years. When they married and started a family, they chose to start their own theatre company in Burlington, and have brought many high-quality productions to the stage since that time. They have also collaborated with many local artists and musicians from the thriving Burlington artistic community.

In 2017, KooGle established a performing arts training program to pass on their experience and passion for theatre and musical theatre. They now have a brand-new performing arts space for classes and rehearsals on Headon Road in Burlington.

Drury Lane Theatrical Productions, Burlington

Drurylane.ca

Drury Lane is celebrating its 49th season as Burlington’s premiere musical theatre company, and they are proud of their heritage of musical storytelling and fun entertainment. All of their shows are staged at The Loft, located in Central Park in the heart of Burlington’s vibrant downtown. Each year they produce three ambitious musical productions as well as a special pantomime just in time for Christmas.

For the 2023-24 season, they will be presenting the classic family musical The Sound of Music, their always popular and wild variety show Music Hall, and finally a new Broadway musical called First Date. You can buy tickets online and season tickets are also available.

Village Theatre Waterdown

Villagetheatrewaterdown.ca

Since 1973 (that’s 50 years!), Village Theatre Waterdown has provided a creative outlet for hundreds of local volunteer actors, directors and designers to express their ideas and share their passion for the performing arts. All shows take place in the downtown core of Waterdown at the historic Waterdown Memorial Hall, which in 2022 celebrated 100 years as a community meeting place. They pride themselves on producing challenging and entertaining dramas, comedies, thrillers, and mysteries for lovers of live theatre.

Upcoming performances include the comedy Girl in the Goldfish Bowl this spring, murder mystery The Art of Murder in the fall, and Bloom in the spring of 2024.

Oakville Players, Oakville

Oakvilleplayers.ca

Founded in 1962, The Oakville Players is a group dedicated to fostering the growth and development of community theatre in Oakville and the surrounding area, producing two main stage shows annually at The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. They also produce One Act training events, live radio plays, and participate in various community events.

Their last production The Top 10 Comeback Festival was staged in June 2022. Check out their website for upcoming plans and performances.

The Burloak Theatre Group, Oakville

Botg.ca

Established in 1976, The Burloak Theatre Group is one of the oldest community theatre groups in Oakville. They produce four shows annually and present them at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. The production of their annual holiday pantomime appeals to multi-generational families and people of all backgrounds, and has become a tradition for many in our community.

Shows produced in the 2022-23 season included The Last of the Red Hot Lovers in the fall, An Ideal Husband in January, and Cabaret in April. Check out their website to find out more about what’s planned for the 2023-24 season!

By Tim Root

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Cheers to Sunshine and Summer! Essential Summer Cocktails and Mocktails

May 11, 2023 No Comments

The hot and hazy days of backyard barbecues, celebrations, and lazy summer weekends are upon us. But before you dip your feet in the kiddie pool, don’t forget to stock the bar!

Sarah Burns, owner of Trail Mix Mobile Bar recommends stocking your bar with a few staple beverages that can be used to make a variety of summer mixed drinks your guests will love.

“There are a number of basics we always recommend be stocked in a bar for any summer event,” says Burns. Vodka, Rum, Gin, Triple Sec and Prosecco are some of her must-have basics. Add a couple of simple syrups, fruit juices, ginger ale, aperol and soda water and some fresh fruits such as peaches, strawberries, raspberries, lemons and limes. “Stocking these staples will allow you to make a wide variety of refreshing summer cocktails,” says Burns.

We asked Burns to share her favourite go-to Summer Cocktails and Mocktails using these ingredients. If you’re planning a party this summer, you’re going to want to add these to your menu!

Margarita

This classic Mexican cocktail is made with tequila, lime juice and triple sec and can be customized by adding different fruit flavours and garnishes.

Mojito

This light and refreshing drink, popular in Cuba and the Caribbean, is
made with white rum, lime juice, fresh mint and club soda. It can also be made without the rum for a delicious mocktail as well by adding simple syrup.

Aperol Spritz

This popular Italian cocktail is made with Aperol, Prosecco and soda water.

Sangria

Always a crowd favourite, Sangria is made in advance making it an easy
drink to serve. Simply mix red or white wine with chipped fruits and brandy or orange juice and chill in the refrigerator overnight. You can add soda water if you prefer a less alcoholic mix.

Shirley Temple

A classic mocktail, the Shirley Temple is made with orange juice, ginger ale and grenadine topped with a fun cherry garnish.

Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade

Up your lemonade game with fresh raspberries, lemon juice and sparkling water served over ice with a lemon wedge garnish. This isn’t your typical “lemonade stand” lemonade.

Time to Party!

If you want to spend your party relaxing with your guests rather than tending the bar, check out these mobile bar rental options.

Hitch and Barrel

hitchandbarrel.ca

Lady Liquor, an adorable 15 ft horse trailer, has been transformed into a modern and elegant mobile bar. Staffed by two SMART serve certified bartenders, Hitch and Barrel provides services anywhere within 50 km of Guelph, Ontario.

Trail Mixer Mobile Bar

trailmixer.ca

Sisters Emma and Sarah completely restored this vintage 1960’s Shasta Camper to serve up some delicious bevvies for your special event. The trailer is equipped with fridges, an ice maker, sink, wine racks and storage and counter space and can be rented with or without their SMART Serve certified bartenders.

Take Note: When renting a mobile bar service, you are responsible for stocking your own beverages (alcohol, mixers and garnishes) and must obtain a Special Occasion Permit through the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (www.agco.ca) to serve alcohol at your event.

Bar Shopping in Halton

Centro Noca, Burlington

centrogarden.com

The new Centro Garden NOCA is just up the street from their flagship location at 590 Brant Street, and houses an incredible selection of barware, including interesting glassware, fantastic garnishes, bitters and a selection of shakers, decanters and other bar tools. Plus you can sample their gelato while you shop.

Flourish and Bask, Oakville

flourishandbask.ca

From syrups and cocktail garnishes to shakers and beautiful glassware, you can be sure your bar will be the talk of the summer. This cocktail and entertaining supply store has everything you need to mix craft cocktails at home and look like a pro while doing it.

Nicetys Kitchen Supply Store, Oakville

shop.nicetys.com

From tableware to dishes, candles, table linens, cookware, bakeware and kitchen electrics, this Oakville kitchenware store has all your entertaining needs covered. For your summer cocktail wish list, they carry cocktail glasses including some ideal for serving on the patio, and a full range of bar accessories.

by Lisa Evans

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Stay In Bed (And Breakfast)

April 21, 2023 No Comments

It’s not always easy to “unplug,” especially in a society that’s so “plugged in.” Little screens in the palm of our hand make us available to anyone at any time in any place, and accessibility can often feel like an unspoken expectation. While it may seem like you need a white sandy beach with tranquil blue waters to “get away from it all,” unplugging close to home can be equally as refreshing. Staycations are easier on the budget and can be planned last minute, allowing for a spontaneous escape. Whether stealing a night away with your significant other or planning a spa-centred girls’ weekend, bed and breakfasts are the perfect local holiday.

Book a room, pack your bags, and grab a bottle of champagne! It’s time to unwind and relax at one of these fantastic bed and breakfasts (bonus: they’re just a short drive away).

Homestead 1867 in Dundas

36 Melville Street, Dundas | Thehomestead1867.ca

Located within a gorgeous stone heritage house, Homestead 1867 is an intimate two-bedroom B&B in charming Dundas. The house was constructed in 1867 and was “home” to the same family over four generations. In 2010, a Dutch couple relocating from the Netherlands to Canada purchased the house, quickly converting it into comfortable accommodations. While adding modern amenities (such as WiFi), the home’s history is reflected in traditional wallpaper and furnishings. Stay in bed, sit by the fireplace, or enjoy Dundas’ Heritage District — there’s plenty to do in the area, including hiking trails, shops, and excellent restaurants.

Your stay at Homestead 1867 includes a healthy breakfast prepared by your hosts, Ton and Jan. Visit thehomestead1867.ca for more details and booking information.

The Barracks Inn in Ancaster

425 Wilson Street East, Ancaster | Thebarracksinn.com

Surrounded by shops and restaurants, this refined hotel in a formal 1812 building is more a Country Inn than true B&B (though you can still expect the same bed and breakfast experience). The century stone building features 18 beautiful suites, each offering a subtle blend of unique period décor and modern in-room amenities. Surrounded by quiet houses, Barracks is only a short walk from shops and boutiques in historic Ancaster Village. Plus, picturesque trails and waterfalls are only a short distance away.

Inside, rustic-contemporary decor and handcrafted, locally-made furniture provide a unique elegance to your stay. And like a traditional bed and breakfast, your morning meal is included. Freestanding soaker tubs are available in some suites, and a stunning fireplace warms one of the common areas. Take advantage of the local wines and whiskey cart featuring a variety of scotch. Visit thebarracksinn.com for more details and booking information.

Fox Run in Eden Mills

19 Lowrie Lane, Eden Mills | Foxrunofedenmills.ca

Here’s to getting away from it all! Fox Run is a modern bed and breakfast on a quiet, nicely landscaped property in Eden Mills (between Halton Hills and Guelph in Wellington County). The bungalow sits on 1.3 acres of land in a rural setting and features three unique bedrooms, including the well-appointed Silver Fox room. In the warmer months, guests are welcome to enjoy meals on the deck overlooking the pool. The decor is fresh and contemporary, and the B&B promises both “Irish hospitality and French flair.”

“We are small. This is our home,” says Marie Henault, who operates the bed and breakfast with her husband, Rory Fox. “We treat our guests like friends and try to offer the most comfortable and clean accommodations and a great breakfast designed according to our guests’ dietary needs.”
This bed and breakfast is ideal for anyone who enjoys a more rural setting or enjoys shopping nearby antique markets. Visit foxrunofedenmills.ca for more details and booking information.

Cheers to a wonderful weekend, no matter where you end up!

by Erin Pepler

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Bagel Wars: Who Makes ‘Em Better?

April 20, 2023 No Comments

Montreal vs. New York. Two cities, two styles, one fundamental question: who makes the best bagel? For over a century, our neighbours in the south have claimed ownership of the perfect bagel. But like any good Canadian face-off, we politely disagree – with its distinct sweet tang and unique texture, the homegrown Montreal bagel reigns.

To be fair, this isn’t really an apples-to-apples (or bagel-to-bagel) competition. Montreal and New York-style bagels are vastly different. Can one truly be better than the other? That’s for you to decide.

What’s the difference between New York and Montreal bagels?

More than just the name of their respective cities makes these bagels different. New York and Montreal bagels differ in shape, taste, and cooking method.

Kettle-boiled and baked in a traditional oven, New York bagels have a soft, doughy texture. They’re often thicker than a Montreal bagel with a broader ring and smaller hole.

Montreal bagels, by contrast, are typically smaller and thinner, featuring a larger hole at the centre. Each bagel boils in honey and water – creating its distinctive sweet flavour – before entering the wood-fired oven. The result is a dense golden crunchy crust exterior and a chewy centre.

Where do bagels come from?

While New Yorkers claim the bagel originated on the Lower East Side in Manhattan, bagels trace back to a Jewish tradition in Poland. European immigrants brought the concept of a ring of bread to New York around the 1800s.

The first bagels appeared in Montreal in the early 1900s. New immigrants from Poland and other Eastern European countries brought the bagel to the multicultural city. Credited as being the father of the Montreal bagel, Chaim (Hyman) Seligman sold bagels off a carriage before establishing his bakery on Saint-Laurent Boulevard in 1900.

How to eat ‘em

Regardless of the city, bagels were traditionally eaten on their own. But today, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a breakfast bagel without a spread. Modern-day bagel shops offer a wide variety of cream cheese flavours to burst your taste buds. They also make the perfect “any time” sandwich with some meat, cheese, or an egg.

OKO Bagels

499 Cornwall Road, Oakville
OKObagels.com

This artisanal bagel shop in South East Oakville handcrafts Montreal-style bagels (and bakes them in a wood-fired oven on-site). OKO delivers a diverse menu of bagel flavours, including cinnamon raisin, rosemary sea salt, and cinnamon sugar. Bagel toppings include a variety of flavoured cream cheeses and a menu of hearty bagel sandwiches. Try the Caprese bagel made with mozzarella, turkey, tomato, basil, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. You’ll never look at a bagel the same again.

JC’s Hot Bagels Cafe

3011 New Street, Burlington
JCshotbagels.com

This bagel cafe has been Burlington’s favourite breakfast and lunch spot since 1995. Owners Jack and Joseph Champi came to Canada from Lebanon, fleeing the country’s civil war. In their hands was their family’s bagel recipe, handed down by generations. The brothers decided to start a business using that famous recipe, and JC’s was born. JC’s offers a variety of bagel flavours, including cheddar herb, garlic, sourdough, and a wide variety of breakfast and lunch bagels. Be sure to try one of their homemade cream cheese spreads (the pineapple walnut is our fave).

Bagel Barn

4490 Fairview Street, Burlington
Bagelbarn.ca

Hand-rolled on-site daily, these New York Style bagels are fresh and full of flavour! Every bagel is made from scratch, with all-natural, quality ingredients. Specializing in premium sandwiches with meat, cheese, fresh veg, or eggs, they’re a great spot to pick up breakfast or lunch. Homemade spreads are also available.

by Nicole Lischer

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Hockey Life In Canada: What To Know When Your Kid Wants To Hit The Rink

April 20, 2023 No Comments

Hockey: it’s the game that unites our country (and pits neighbours against each other over favourite teams). This stick-and-puck game is widely considered our national pastime, from Hockey Night in Canada to ball hockey on the street. Car!

Between Oakville and Burlington, a total of 36 players have made it to the NHL so far. While that may not be your child’s end goal, our local leagues are known to offer incredible skills training. But before we anticipate our region’s next draft picks, let’s start with the basics.

Getting Started

It really begins with one thing, learning how to skate – and learn-to-skate programs are a great way to fast-track your skills. “You want to make sure you have the fundamentals of skating,” says Anthony Miele, former Vice President of Wave Hockey and the Program Development and Marketing Consultant at Burlington Lion’s Optimist Minor Hockey Association (BLOMHA).

Once your little one is comfortable on the ice, you can graduate to a hockey skills program. Children usually hit the ice in full equipment as they learn to handle a stick and pass the puck. Oakville Hockey Academy and Wave Hockey Academy offer introductory programs, while the Oakville Hornets and Burlington Barracudas specifically cater to girls.

Founded in 1996, the Oakville Hornets Girl’s Hockey Association is one of the largest girls-only hockey clubs in the world. Now in their 18th season, they have consistently reached over 1,100 registered players. Their program boasts 34 House League teams from U7 to Senior, plus the Development Stream (DS) in younger divisions. With similar offerings, The Burlington Girls Hockey Club recently announced their “Grow the Game” initiative in addition to their existing Initiation Program for girls aged four to six.

House League (Rec)

For friendly competition and the experience of playing on a team, try House League. This recreational league is low-stress (no tryouts) and designed for fun. Players can even request to be on the same team as their friends. With one practice and one game per week, families find this option relatively easy to fit into a busy schedule – though it does come with a cost: league fees range from $500 – $700 per season.

For more intensity, house leagues offer ‘Select’ – also known as Development Stream (DS) in girls’ hockey. This level of play is for higher-skilled players and requires tryouts.

Rep Hockey

Players with an appetite for more competitive hockey may want to explore rep (short for “representative”) hockey.

Burlington and Oakville have rep hockey teams for boys and girls, with annual tryouts. With more practice, training, games, and tournaments, this competitive level of hockey requires a significant commitment from players (and their families). “Rep hockey becomes time-consuming,” says Miele. It’s at least twice the time commitment of house league and involves traveling to tournaments. But rep comes with a cost (nearly four times that of house league hockey) ranging from $2,000 to $3,800, depending on the player’s skill level and commitment. When deciding whether to pursue rep hockey, Miele says, “You have to be realistic.”

Parents with children enrolled in the sport quickly learn that hockey is far more than athleticism and NHL dreams, regardless of the level played. Many parents say that hockey has allowed their kids to feel more comfortable and confident, and has resulted in great friendships, trust, responsibility, and sportsmanship.

From learn-to-skate to rep, you can’t go wrong with the programs in our community. Check them out: