Shop local and handmade for the holidays IN TWO WEEKS!
The Artisan Bazaar has been supporting local handmakers since 2017! Our passion is celebrating creativity and craftsmanship by providing a vibrant space for artisans to connect with the community.
We’re dedicated to showcasing unique, high-quality handmade goods and helping small businesses thrive. Every event is designed to bring people together to discover and support talented creators, fostering a love for locally made products and the stories behind them.
Hard and ugly, curious and inedible, gourds are among the most confusing fall vegetables. According to the Canadian Gourd Society (CGS), people are passionate about gourd crafting – not eating!
On their website the CGS explain that gourd growing and drying takes place in the fall. By the spring, they’re dry, hollow and hard and it’s time for gourd crafting. The CGS website publishes a wealth of information about gourd workshops, equipment, supplies, gourding ideas and projects. But if you thought gourds were only useful when dried and crafted into fashionable flowerpots and birdhouses, you’ll be happy to know there is much more to this category of vegetable than meets the eye.
Of course, the term gourd means a large, hard-shelled fall vegetable. Gourd is a category, however, that includes the more colourful, soft shelled winter squashes such as pumpkins, butternut squash, acorn squash, spaghetti squash and many others you’ve seen in grocery stores and on- farm markets.
Markets on farms offer the most unique variety of winter squash. These include Sweet Dumpling and Red Currie, along with more common traditional varieties like Butternut and Spaghetti squash commonly found at grocery stores. When it comes to traditional varieties, most of us can roast squash with some modicum of skill, but when it comes to the newer squash varieties, that’s when people begin to shy away.
GOURMET TIPS FOR COOKING SQUASH
Don’t miss out on a good thing this fall. Here’s my advice on preparing a few irresistible squash dishes.
Sweet dumpling squash are smaller than most, round with a mottled green and white exterior. The flavour is somewhat sweet with a mild savoury taste and they have an edible skin. Just wash the outside, cut it in half, remove the seeds, and slice it. Baste it with a little garlic oil and roast it in a hot 425F oven for 20 minutes or until soft. Remove the squash slices from the oven and do what I do – once cooled, pick them up with your fingers and eat them like you would cookies! They’re so yummy, even the kids will love them!
Carnival squash is a relative newcomer to the squash family. It’s the same size and shape as Sweet Dumpling squash, but the Carnival squash is a beautiful orange, green and cream colour. Because of its rich fall hues, this squash is popular as a table centrepiece – pity, because it’s so delicious.
The flavour is sweet, but a little more buttery than the simple, straightforward taste of Sweet Dumpling squash. For this reason, it’s beautiful steamed (not boiled, to avoid excess moisture), mashed with lots of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a little bit of cream. The skins of both Sweet Dumpling and Carnival squash are edible but peeling is necessary if you’re making mashed squash.
Honeynut Squash looks like a smaller version of Butternut Squash. It grows smaller, with more flavour concentration. Honeynut squash makes an irresistible cream of squash soup garnished with crème fraîche and dried pumpkin seeds. A beautiful fall treat.
Of course, you can stick to traditional winter squash varieties, but I’m finding these a little bland in flavour when compared to the newer varieties. The only squash that stand up to the new kids on the block in terms of flavour are Buttercup, Kabocha, Hubbard and Turban Squash. When roasted with thyme, garlic and other savoury spices, they present a deep richness on the palate that fills your insides with satisfying fall goodness.
SHOP AT A FARM
With autumn around the corner, flavours are turning savoury, making winter squash a welcome addition to the dinner table. And as leaves display their blaze of glory, why not take a leisurely drive in the countryside? It’s here you’ll find fields of ripening gourds, including a dizzying array of winter squash. For a directory of farms near you, go to www.farmfreshontario.com
The spirit of an unidentified, long-deceased woman haunts the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. Locally known as “Alice,” she makes her presence known by tampering with the lights and equipment and sometimes appearing to guests in the ladies’ washroom.
Fans of the supernatural can learn about Alice and other apparitions on ghost walks hosted by the Oakville Historical Society. Another spooky landmark is the Oakville Museum (former residence of the Chisholm family), which boasts at least nine ghosts. One is Rebecca Chisholm, wife of Oakville’s founder, George Chisholm. Rebecca died of a stroke at the age of 65 and has been seen strolling in the gardens of the estate ever since.
A ghost walk is a guided tour and a local history lesson that just happens to feature an area’s most haunted locations. Ghost guides are men and women hired for their great storytelling ability, flair for speaking, and love of local history. Tours typically happen at night, for optimal activity and goose bumps.
Beyond the grave
“Ghost walks highlight local folklore, making them a fun and entertaining way for residents and visitors to spend an evening and learn about the community’s past, often leading to a deeper connection to the area,” says Marie Descent, Oakville Historical Society, Secretary of the Board of Directors.
For people who are intrigued by the paranormal, Oakville is – both figuratively and literally – the perfect haunt. Founded in 1827, it was a major shipping port in the 19th century and in 1834 was made a port of entry for foreign visitors and immigrants. Oakville was also a major gateway to Canada for African Americans fleeing slavery using the Underground Railroad.
“Add to this Oakville’s many historical buildings and houses, and the colourful residents that have walked the streets of Oakville,” Descent says, “and you have the setting for great ghost stories.”
Who knew that the charming harbour town had skeletons in so many closets?
The unrest is history
Daniel Cumerlato of Dundas Ghost Walks has been running ghost tours in the Hamilton area since 2003. “I started out as a paranormal investigator back in the day,” he says. “Eventually I realized ghost stories were a real passion, and it spanned out from there.
Cumerlato has been collecting history and ghost stories for well over 20 years. Tours are based on personal experiences, mixed in with famous ghost stories of different supposed haunts. He combines deep research with organized storytelling to showcase each stop on the tour in the most compelling way possible.
Dundas, like Oakville, is a notorious ghost magnet. Incorporated in 1847, it has a rich history as a manufacturing and transportation hub. Early Ontario settlers travelling East or West passed through Dundas, where wealthy merchants and farmers spent scads of money at hotels, saloons and taverns along King Street. Their spirits lurk to this day.
The former Dundas District School, now an attractive condo, is a favourite stop for ghost walkers. A man named Russell, who was a caretaker there in the 1950s, allegedly made a death pact with the other 4 caretakers. They vowed that whoever died first must return and haunt the school. Russell died first.
“Now he’s the legendary ghost at the old building, experienced by so many over the previous 50 years when it served as a school,” Cumerlato says. This season, he adds, former students on ghost walks have shared their own ghostly experiences and Russell sightings.
Ghost walks are about both history and spooky stories. Guides do their best to connect the ghost to real history. When that’s not possible, they tell some robust legends.
“People enjoy the ghost tours as a unique way to learn about a town or city through its ghosts,” Cumerlato says. “And thinking, just maybe, that person still remains in an ‘energetic form’ is a bonus.”
If you’ve ever strolled along Burlington’s scenic waterfront, you’ve likely admired the view of Lake Ontario. But did you know that this peaceful promenade was once the site of an internationally renowned hotspot? Yes, right there on the grounds of Spencer Smith Park, where families now play and geese gather, the Brant Inn once stood—a glamorous beacon of entertainment that attracted some of the biggest stars of the 20th century…
For over thirty years, from the 1930s to the 1960s, the Brant Inn was the place to be. North America’s top entertainers performed in an elegant venue that could accommodate over a thousand guests. The music was so captivating that it was broadcast on radio stations across Canada and the United States, allowing listeners from coast to coast to share in the magic.
The Brant Inn, 1900-1925
“The Brant Inn transformed many times since its inception as a Country Club at the original Brant Hotel,” explains Lynna Nguyen, Acting Curator of the Museums of Burlington. “It solidified itself as Ontario’s entertainment capital during its heyday, boasting an impressive venue that was as grand as its performers.”
The Brant Inn’s stage saw the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Lawrence Welk, Johnny Mathis, Duke Ellington, Lena Horne, The Ink Spots, and Liberace, just to name a few. The crowds they drew were enormous—so much so that when Benny Goodman’s band played, the police had to step in to manage the traffic jams.
The Inn’s rise to fame was largely due to John Murray Anderson, a visionary in the entertainment world. His innovative ideas transformed the Brant Inn into a cultural hub. The venue even hosted the Miss Canada pageant for several years, drawing even more attention to this already popular spot.
Louis Armstrong
During the Heyday of the Brant Inn, Burlington positively glittered with stars.
Not even Hollywood could resist the charm of the Brant Inn. In 1952, while filming in Niagara Falls, Marilyn Monroe arrived in Burlington on Anderson’s yacht. Imagine her mingling with glamorous stars like Jayne Mansfield as a ship’s bell rang out to the song “Anchors Aweigh,” kicking off another night at the nautically themed inn.
But it wasn’t all glitz and glamour. Some of those who worked at the Brant Inn have tales of a ghostly figure appearing on the stairs adding adding a touch of the eerie to this place.
End of an era
Ella Fitzgerald
In the late sixties, as rock and roll gained popularity over traditional big band music, the Inn’s appeal began to fade. The Brant Inn closed its doors in 1968 and was demolished a year later, with its contents auctioned off as cherished mementos.
The Brant Inn may be gone, but its story is far from forgotten. A visit to the Joseph Brant Museum will give you a glimpse into its glamorous past.
Just this past June, folks gathered to pay tribute to the iconic landmark. At the Marquis Gardens at the Waterfront Hotel, an evening of dining, dancing, and swing music brought back the spirit of the Brant Inn, raising funds for the Museums of Burlington. The event, aptly named “An Evening at the Brant Inn,” was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, complete with the lively atmosphere that made the original venue so beloved.
“When Benny Goodman’s band played, the police had to step in to manage the traffic jams.”
As Lynna Nguyen put it, “The Brant Inn was more than just a place to dine and party. It held warm memories for many families in the community—they celebrated special occasions, traditions emerged, or it was even someone’s first job. Many people look back at the Brant Inn with fond memories.”
Next time you find yourself on the Burlington waterfront, keep an eye out for the heritage plaque provided by the Burlington Historical Society—a small but fitting tribute to a place that once brought joy to so many.
Take a moment to imagine the music, the laughter, and the countless memories that were made on that very spot.
We’ve all heard the twin man-tras “Shop Local” and “Support Local.” Many of us support these goals, but are they realistic when it comes to our fashion buying decisions?
When I was attending U of T in the 80’s sourcing Canadian made fashion was easy, although I didn’t have the budget to buy as much as I would have liked! I enjoyed window shopping in Yorkville and strolling into Holt Renfrew to see designs by Leo Chevalier, Pat McDonagh, Simon Chang and Alfred Sung.
Much has changed in the realm of Canadian manufacturing, due to events such as the signing of the North American Free Trade Agreement in 1994, and the introduction of “fast fashion” in early 2005 when import quotas on fashion were lifted. All the more reason to support entrepreneurs who remain committed to offering home-grown fashions.
Linea Intima 196 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville | lineaintima.ca
Canadian-made products at Linea Intima include elegant sleepwear of 100% silk and French lace, designed by Christine Morton and manufactured in Vancouver, and haute couture SHAN swimwear made in Montreal.
According to Linea Intima’s President, Karen Capocci, customers are pleasantly surprised to know that such beautiful apparel is made in Canada. Supporting local independent retailers often comes with a higher price tag, but quality sells.
“Customers today are more and more conscious about what they buy due to the economics of current times,” Capocci says, “so they are looking for items that they know will last the test of time.”
Jus B’ Gauze 4019 New St, Burlington | jusbgauze.com
This women’s clothing store in Burlington proudly carries Canadian labels such as Frank Lyman, Compli K, and Sympli — because customers are willing to pay for superior quality and style.
Sales associate Carol McKellar tells of a recent fall display of Frank Lyman clothing in the store’s window that virtually flew off the rack. “We’re already down to just one piece,” she says. “Ladies who know their fashions love that brand… and we all feel better when we can buy anything Canadian-made, whether it’s groceries, clothing, anything else.”
RevolutionHER Inc. 900 Maple Ave, Unit A11A, Burlington 125 Lakeshore Rd. E, Oakville revolutionher.com
A passion for women, which includes supporting women owned brands, is central to the work of RevolutionHER. One of their initiatives is a 3,000 square foot retail space, the RevolutionHER store, whose flagship location is in Burlington’s Mapleview Mall. The store features 100 women-owned brands, including Smash & Tess and Dotty, which are also available in their new downtown Oakville Location.
Founder and CEO Maria Locker reports seeing a rising trend in women-led clothing design and manufacturing businesses in Canada, and says customers regularly seek home-grown fashions.
“From my experience,” she says, “women-led clothing brands place a more prominent focus on how their products look and feel for their customers, while also being mindful of their impact on the environment and avoiding fast-fashion pitfalls.”
On your next fashion spree, be sure to ask for clothes that are made in Canada. You’ll up your style game and learn what quality feels like, all while supporting the artistic innovators who are the backbone of Canada’s fashion industry.
The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it’s also a major contributor to plastic waste that harms both our environment and our health. Plastics like wraps and ziploc bags often contain harmful chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, which can leach into our food.
These single-use items often end up in landfills, where they persist for centuries, polluting our water, soil and air.
By making simple, sustainable swaps, you can transform your kitchen into a haven of eco-friendly living, protecting your family’s health and reducing your home’s carbon footprint. To get started, look no further than your local shops for eco- friendly alternatives.
Wrap It Up
“Beeswax wraps completely replace [plastic] wrap,” says Laura Newton, founder of The Kind Matter Company in Oakville and Milton. Unlike plastic wrap, which traps moisture inside and produces a slimy texture on food, beeswax wraps mimic the skin of a fruit. “They allow air in, but also allow moisture out,” says Newton.
Beeswax wraps are reusable, compostable and durable. Christine Kempf, co-founder of Mrs. Greenway in Dundas, says that with proper maintenance, beeswax wraps can be reused around 500 times. Beeswax melts when it’s warmed, so it’s advisable to wash in cold water. “You don’t want to wash it in hot water, and never use it on a container of hot chicken,” Kempf says. “It needs to cool down first before covering up.
Litterless Lunch
Ziploc baggies may make packing school snacks easy, but these single- use plastics contribute to environmental waste and possible health risks associated with plastic use. Colibri bags are reusable fabric pouches that make packing litterless lunches easy, as they can be washed and reused. Plus, they have dozens of adorable prints kids love. “As long as you take care of it, it will replace hundreds of boxes of ziploc bags,” says Kempf.
Food Storage
Plastic food storage containers can absorb the flavours, odours and colours of food over time, and may leach harmful chemicals into your food as they break down. Stainless steel containers are a durable, eco-friendly alternative. Although they require a higher initial investment, Newton says they ultimately cost less than having to constantly replace plastic containers. “They’re going to last you a lifetime,” she says.
Stasher bags are another great eco-friendly food storage alternative. Made with 100% food-grade silicone, they come in a variety of sizes, including bowls that open wide enough to eat directly from. These reusable, leakproof and air tight containers keep food fresh longer, can be put in the freezer and even washed in the dishwasher. Plus, they’re incredibly long lasting! “Some of my Stasher bags I’ve had for probably seven years,” says Kempf.
Refills
Refilling dish soap and cleaning solution is a simple and effective way to eliminate plastic containers from your kitchen. You don’t need to invest in fancy glass jars right away, although they do look nice. Both Mrs. Greenway and The Kind Matter Company will refill any container, even your old Palmolive bottle. “The most sustainable thing is the one you already have,” says Newton. “If you have a container that is working properly that happens to be plastic, use it until the last moment, then you can upgrade to a glass or aluminum bottle,” she advises.
Refilling also offers cost savings, as you’re not paying for new bottles, pumps or labels. While the eco-friendly dish soaps offered at The Kind Matter Company and Mrs. Greenway may be more expensive than conventional grocery stores brands, these premium products are more concentrated, meaning you use less each time, and you can rest assured knowing you’re using a quality product. “You’re keeping plastic out of the waste system, but you’re also keeping other chemicals out of the water and it’s better for your own health,” says Kempf.
By making these four simple swaps, you can significantly reduce plastic in your kitchen and contribute to a healthier planet, and a healthier you!
In today’s eco-conscious culture, the thought of turning a fallen or removed tree from your yard into furniture might cross your mind. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also offers the chance to take on a rewarding DIY project. The result is a unique, sentimental piece that preserves the memories tied to your property for years to come.
While the romantic idea of taking something that has naturally come to an end and giving it new life holds true, the reality of a project like this is rooted in the condition of the tree.
“What looks fine on the outside might not be fine on the inside due to rot, fall fractures, or pests,” says Chris Marshall, Customer Service Manager at Exotic Woods.
“If a tree is removed before it’s completely dead, there is usually something salvageable,” adds Rick Veenstra, Inside Sales at Exotic Woods.
Here’s what woodworking enthusiasts should keep in mind to balance the emotional value and practicality of repurposing a tree into home décor.
Endless possibilities
Tap into your creativity with these out-of-the-box ideas for reusing different parts of a tree: create natural wood wall art using the bark and branches, design a tree trunk vanity with the stump as the base, craft a wood slab headboard, or use branches to make original lighting that adds an earthy vibe to your home. Many traditional options will give your tree a functional purpose.
“A tree can be made into cabinet doorknobs, charcuterie boards, jewellery boxes, or larger items like chairs, dressers, and dining tables,” explains Steve Culumovic, Owner-Operator of Blue Skies Custom Woodwork. “What you can make is only limited by the size and quality of the tree.”
Trust the process
When someone contacts a professional to discuss a piece of wood they’d like transformed, aside from determining the condition, there are several other factors to consider. “The main thing to look for is how dry it appears,” says Umar Ahmed, Owner of Tabulo Furniture. “We always discuss the concept and determine how the piece will look and feel in the customer’s space. Everything else like stains, finishes, and details flows from there.”
“At Exotic Woods, we ask questions regarding plans, budget, and timeline,” explains Marshall. “Our concerns are finding any embedded foreign material like stones or metal that could potentially harm our staff or equipment, and we give an honest answer about what will and won’t work for our clients’ projects. We understand that many of these trees hold deep meaning for people for various reasons.”
When deciding if this is the route for you, “Remember there are always cost and time factors involved,” adds Veenstra. “When done properly, air drying is the most economical, but for every inch of thickness you’re looking at one to one and a half years of drying.”
“A tree can be made into cabinet doorknobs, charcuterie boards, jewellery boxes, or larger items like chairs, dressers, and dining tables.”
STEVE CULUMOVIC, Blue Skies Custom Woodwork
What’s trending now
The aesthetic of rustic wood in home décor has remained popular throughout 2024, emphasizing the trend of bringing outdoor elements indoors and investing in sustainable craftsmanship.
“We’re increasingly seeing clients tired of live edge tables and wanting pieces that have more character, workmanship, and are like works of art,” says Ahmed. In addition to the well-known trends of using live edge and white oak for custom furniture, Culumovic explains, “I can say I’ve had a lot of furniture repair or repurposing inquiries, which I’m also happy to do!”
Autumn here we come. Falling for Burlington Downtown is Back!
The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) proudly welcomes Burlington residents and visitors to a day full of autumn fun. The changing of the seasons is truly a magical thing to see, and the BDBA is inviting you to enjoy it all!
Residents and visitors alike are welcomed into Burlington Downtown for a magical, captivating, and interactive fall experience. Falling for autumn has never been so easy as you enjoy a day filled with fun for all ages, treats & sweets, drinks & bites and so much more.
The FREE fall fun and activities at our annual downtown event is a day of self-led exploration in your own backyard. Take in delicious pizza along Promenade West. Enjoy some nibbles and crafts in Promenade East. Play games and snap some Instagram worthy pics in Civic Square! Enjoy seasonal treats and sweets along Brant Street & in Village Square.
Have you had your first PSL yet this season (I mean, come on Pumpkin Spice Lattes are delish!)? Have you picked up that oh-so-cozy fleece sweater that just screams comfy? Ready to enjoy that satisfying hearty fall meal on a crisp autumn night? Burlington Downtown has you covered! As you take in the sights of the season, make sure to take in all our downtown business community has to offer.
Shop, dine, sip and everything in between as you visit over 400 small businesses that proudly call downtown home.
New this year is the BDBA’s sensory zone! This special place offers visitors a break from the day’s activities with calming lighting, lowered sounds and multi-sensory relaxation activities. Need a hand while visiting the sensory zone? Our event staff has you covered, we’re here to help!
Falling for Burlington Downtown takes place Saturday October 5th, 4h from 12pm to 4pm.
Heading west along Plains Road from bustling Burlington, the landscape becomes more spacious as you enter Aldershot Village. You pass strips of unique shops, and proud residential streets lined with stately trees.
More than just a lovely neighbourhood, Aldershot is home to over 250 businesses. Their owners, many of whom reside in Aldershot, are committed to developing long-lasting customer relationships. Andrea Dodd, Executive Director of Aldershot Village BIA, feels that community spirit every time she goes out for coffee.
“Our local Tim Hortons is where the Aldershot community gathers!” she says. This particular Tim Hortons is a multi-generational, family run establishment that hosts NHL Hockey Card trading nights and helps out with local events and festivals — just a few examples of their community involvement.
That friendly down-home vibe imbues every business in the Village, from classic institutions to ultra-chic new ones.
The business owners of Aldershot BIA are the heart and soul of this community. When you buy their products or enlist their services, you directly support the good folks who call Aldershot home. Here’s a sampling:
MEET OUR MERCHANTS
Fashion Retailers & Kids Clothing
ISarti Luxury Menswear The latest luxurious men’s fashions, Italian-designed and made, including suits, dress shirts, casual jeans and jumpers.
Kid to Kid Burlington A consignment shop for parents and kids that offers first-rate second-hand clothing, accessories and gear for kids of all ages.
Food & Drink
J&G Meats A destination in Aldershot since 1962, J&G Meats proudly serves up the freshest cuts of top-notch meats and actively supports community initiatives.
The Lord Nelson Enjoy the highest quality meats and seafood in an atmosphere of elegance along with an extensive wine list.
The Olive Oil Dispensary Choose among more than 60 extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world.
The Platter Company Gourmet Market Pick up ‘restaurant style’ prepared meals including appetizers, mains, side dishes and desserts to make entertaining easy. Full gluten free menu also available.
Russell Williams Since 1932, this diner has served home-cooked food with a warm welcome. It’s the kind of place where the pancakes are stacked high, the fries are plentiful and the coffee flows freely.
Skyway Diner A favourite local place for breakfast, lunch and dinner offering a wide variety of menu items, including family-friendly packages.
West Plains Bistro An independently owned bistro style restaurant, West Plains Bistro offers market fresh and seasonal menu items in the heart of Aldershot.
Health & Wellness
Aldershot Audiology Provides exceptional and affordable hearing healthcare in a compassionate environment.
Aldershot Foot Clinic Clinic and mobile services in comprehensive foot care, treatment of ingrown toenails, corns and calluses.
Dental Life Dental and specialty care for the whole family.
Eye Focus Optometry & Optical A total wellness approach to eye wellness, identifying areas in a patient’s life where small changes could have an impact on their eye health – including nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle choices – to maximize visual potential.
Grounded Pilates A studio offering small group Reformer and Pilates chair classes, barre, mat and yoga classes.
JV Pro Fitness Offers private and semi-private training to get you in the shape you desire. They specialize in core strengthening, improving flexibility, building muscle and ‘lean and mean’ bodies.
Still Water Float Centre Floating (on super buoyant, heated water with a high concentration of therapeutic grade Epsom salt) is a way to give yourself a break from the endless input of sensory experiences, allowing the mind to rest and recharge.
INSTRUCTION Yellow Umbrella Driving School – A small class, quality instruction driving school, catering to all students including those with ADHD, anxiety, Asperger’s and higher functioning Autism.
PET FOOD
Call of the Wild This raw and natural pet food store is committed to improving the quality of life for dogs and cats by providing nutrition the natural way, through real ingredients.
SENIOR LIVING
Burlington Gardens Residents at this lovely independent senior living community enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, with time to pursue their hobbies and spend time with friends.
LaSalle Retirement Community Enter into a world of vibrant seniors living, where the well-being, comfort and safety of residents are priority number one.
Two murals now adorn the walls of Aldershot businesses. The Mr. Sub plaza proudly displays a cheerful “Greetings from Aldershot” mural, lovingly conceived by @mrsprayart. And at the Tim Hortons drive-thru, a mural by Aldershot High School students adds pure joy to your coffee buzz with their Timbits-and-outdoors-themed creation.
ART ON A GRAND SCALE
Happy Anniversary, Beautiful! The Aldershot BIA turned 20 years old in 2024. To mark the occasion, several storefronts along Plains Road got a makeover thanks to the Aldershot BIA’s Keep Aldershot Beautiful initiative. Streetscape improvements include lighting, signage, street furniture, planters, banners, sidewalk treatments, and seasonal decorations.
New construction soon will only enhance Aldershot’s high aesthetic standard. The BIA aims to increasingly attract visitors, encourage foot traffic, and ultimately contribute to the economic vitality of the area.
“As the BIA celebrates its 20th year, we are celebrating growth and change,” says Andrea Dodd. “The area is set for development and as these buildings go up, we are looking forward to new businesses coming in, along with celebrating and supporting our old favourites. It is an exciting time along Plains Road!”
You plan a perfectly portioned meal, offering a rainbow of foods to nourish your growing child, yet when they sit at the table it’s like a veggie eviction. The carrots get sidelined, followed by a dramatic “yuck” or even a fake gag at the broccoli.
The veggie showdown can be especially frustrating for parents. We know those colourful foods are full of vitamins and minerals that are critical for growing bodies, so how can we pack them into our picky little eaters?
It may help to know that this aversion to veggies is developmentally normal. “We have an innate affinity to sweet foods, beginning from as early as in utero,” says Norine Khalil, Registered Dietitian at One Elephant Integrative Health Team in Oakville. “Breast milk and formula are sweet, so we are exposed to sweet flavours from so early on that our taste buds may just enjoy these more in comparison to more bitter tasting vegetables.”
The good news is most kids do grow out of this distaste for veggies as they become less sensitive to flavours. Try these tips to encourage a love for vegetables at an early age.
Offer Choice and Variety
“For some kids, the idea of trying something new can be scary,” says Amy Pulford, Director of Little Kitchen Academy in Oakville. Giving kids control over their food can help them be more adventurous. Visiting a farmer’s market or grocery store and inviting your child to choose a new vegetable to try gives them control over their food choices, and you both might be surprised by what you discover!
Involve Kids in Food Prep
Making kids part of the process of preparing food can make them more likely to try it. Depending on their age, meal prep involvement may be as simple as helping to crack an egg, collecting ingredients from the fridge or pressing the button on the blender.“At Little Kitchen Academy, we encourage our students to plant, nurture and harvest some of our produce in our outdoor garden because we know that when we are an active participant in our food choices, we will try them – and more often than not, enjoy them,” says Pulford.
Talk About Preferences
When your child says “yuck” and pushes veggies off their plate, rather than trying to convince them to eat it, Pulford says this is a great moment to explore what they don’t like about the food.
“Perhaps your child has always said that they don’t like tomatoes, but through talking about what they don’t like – the texture, taste – you may discover that they in fact do like tomatoes prepared in a different way, such as grilled versus raw or cut versus whole,” she says.
Avoid Hidden Vegetables
You may think you’re being sneaky by packing blended veggies into your child’s pasta sauce, but Khalil says this strategy can backfire as kids miss out on the opportunity to get used to the actual look, texture and taste of vegetables.
Instead, she recommends presenting vegetables in a variety of ways – roasting, steaming, air frying or pairing with a yummy dip such as hummus or guacamole. “Exposure to the texture is a huge part of getting kids comfortable with vegetables, and we often will skip this due to frustration,” she says.
Make Veggies Fun
Rather than dumping a spoonful of broccoli onto your child’s dinner plate, get creative with making veggie faces on pizza or cutting veggies into fun shapes.
Offer Without Pressure
“It can take over 10 exposures for a child to even consider trying a new food”, says Khalil. Developing a taste for vegetables can take time.
Add veggies to their lunch along with foods they typically enjoy and avoid calling attention to whether they eat it or not.
By openly incorporating vegetables into meals and encouraging a positive attitude towards them, you can win the veggie wars and develop lifelong healthy eating habits, too!
Broccoli Pesto Pasta
INGREDIENTS
100 g broccoli
55 g dried spaghetti
14 g unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
35 g yellow onion
1 garlic clove
1/2 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp pepper
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp heavy cream
28 g parmesan, grated
METHOD
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook broccoli for 2-3 minutes to blanch. Drain broccoli and transfer to a bowl of ice water to shock.
Once broccoli has cooled, chop into small pieces.
In a frying pan, melt the butter and the olive oil. Add the onions and cook until translucent.
Add the garlic, broccoli, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes to the frying pan and cook.
Pour the cream into the frying pan and cook to slightly thicken. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Cook the pasta in boiling water. Reserve 1/4 to 1/2 cup pasta water to thin sauce.
Place the broccoli mixture in a blender and blend until almost smooth (a few chunks are desired). If too thick or dry add 1 tbsp pasta water at a time to thin down sauce.
Toss the pasta in the broccoli sauce and parmesan cheese.
