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Full STEAM Ahead – Extra-Curricular Programs in Oakville and Burlington

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It’s no surprise that in today’s high-tech world, parents seek STEAM learning opportunities to prepare their children for their future careers. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) learning is hands-on and incredibly beneficial for children’s development. Plus, the emphasis on creativity, innovation, problem-solving and critical thinking are skills that translate into just about any career path. STEAM programs empower children to be inquisitive, to ask questions, and explore and understand the world around them.

Oakville and Burlington have endless opportunities for children to test the limits of STEAM. Here are a few options to check out:

MakerKids • www.makerkids.com/oakville

Virtual only, serving Burlington, Hamilton, Milton & surrounding area Un leash your child’s potential with MakerKids, designed and created by industry professionals and makers! Offering award-winning coding, robotics, and Minecraft programs for children ages 6 to 13. Embedded in all MakerKids programs are lessons that help kids build confidence, resilience, social skills, and a positive relationship with technology. Makers will love designing their own video games, creating robotic inventions, designing, and experimenting. Some  programs even expose kids to technologies used by industry professionals. MakerKids offers weekly group classes, private classes, camps, and birthday parties. Your little one can even join them in a free trial class!

Code Ninjas • www.codeninjas.com

3410 Mainway ActivityPlex, Burlington • 2333 Taunton Road Unit 6, Oakville

Le arn to code while creating your own video game with Code Ninjas! With locations in Oakville and Burlington, Code Ninjas provides a safe, fun, and inspiring environment for children to gain problem-solving, critical thinking, and STEM skills. Their unique self-paced program is led by Code Senseis (mentors) as they guide children (ninjas) through their game-based curriculum. Kids will love building their own video games along with popular games like Roblox and Minecraft. As students complete their levels, they’ll move through the martial-arts style belting system, beginning with a white belt and finishing with a black belt. Parents can book 1 to 2 hours sessions right on the Code Ninjas website.

E-Bots • www.ebots.ca

3325 North Service Road #108, Burlington

Located in Burlington, this familyrun business has been operating in Halton for over 15 years. E-Bots teaches computer programming through the medium of Lego robotics. Founded in Oakville in 2008, this organization and its students have already had tremendous success. They are nine times Provincial Champions and eight times secondplace champions. Students have traveled to nine International Championships and were winners of the 2011/12 First Lego League (FLL) World Festival. Most recently they placed second at the 2017/18 World Festival. E-Bots engages students through two levels of classes: WeeBots and E-Bots. WeeBots is for grades 2-3, while E-Bots is for Grades 4+. Students investigate concepts and mechanizations of simple machines, compound simple machines, and an introduction to programming, using LEGO models and WeDo programming. (WeDo software allows students to program the robots, controlling their actions, sounds and responses).

Many of their alumnae have gone off to robotics, engineering, and mechatronics programs. Two of their students won the $80,000 Schulich Scholarships and both are in mechatronics programs at the University of Waterloo. Additionally, some of their graduates have held jobs at Apple, Nvidia, and HexBugs.

Idea Lab Kids • www.idealabkids.com

1393 North Service Road East, Oakville

IDEA Lab Kids offers a wide variety of enrichment programs, afterschool programs, camps, and birthday party experiences across a wide variety of STEAM subjects for kids ages 3+. Learn coding, engineering, science, visual arts, culinary arts, robotics, and even movie making. There’s a program for every child’s interest at IDEA Lab Kids.

The Learning Tree • www.learningtreecanada.com 1450 Headon Road, Burlington

Burlington’s teacher-owned and operated educational resources store offers Lego Bricks Challenge, a fun and educational program for builders and coders ages 4 to 10. Students learn physics and science while building a motorized LEGO model.

Snapology • www.snapology.com/location/halton

Snapology offers fun themed programs using LEGO bricks and K’Nex. Whether your child is into Harry Potter, Superheroes, or Minecraft, Snapology has something for them. Snapology offers a wide variety of STEAM programs, robotics, movie making, drones, and video game design.

Snapology’s approach comes from the philosophy that children learn best when actively designing, creating, interacting, and inventing. Snapology programs encourage teamwork and social skills while teaching science, technology, engineering, art, and math concepts They also offer themed birthday party workshops.

by Lisa Evans

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How Do You Know If A House Has Good Bones?

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If you’ve ever been house-hunting or considered a home renovation, you’ve probably heard the term ‘good bones’ used to describe certain properties. The implication is usually clear—the house is in decent shape and would be considered a good investment rather than a money pit—but when it comes down to it, do you know exactly what having ‘good bones’ means?

The Size—And Layout—Is Right

If a home lacks cosmetic updates but is spacious and has a great layout, you could say it has good bones, says Duncan Harvey, a licensed real estate broker with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in Oakville. Essentially, you’re describing a home that can be modernized or changed to reflect your aesthetic without knocking down load-bearing walls or making other major structural changes. This factor is particularly important if you’re looking at a condo or other apartment-style home that cannot be expanded with an addition. “It’s when you can go in and change cabinetry, change the flooring and update some fixtu es, but you’ve already got a large kitchen and a great layout,” he offers as an example. In short: it’s not pretty (yet), but it’s functional.

The Basement Is In Good Shape

Harvey suggests taking a good look at the basement to ensure it’s dry and has no foundational issues. “You’re going to look for water issues; check out the mechanical systems,” Harvey says, noting that this is particularly critical when looking at older homes or heritage properties. Check out the walls, too. “If you’ve got old windows that have damage, that’s a big cost to take on.” He also suggests taking a good look at the home’s flooring—it may look fine at first glance, but if it’s in rough shape and needs replacing, that will be a major cost.

You Know What’s Behind The Walls (And On Them)

A house with good bones will have updated plumbing and electrical systems—no knob and tube or aluminum wiring, for example. Ideally, it will also have a newer roof and driveway. “Not everyone wants to go behind the walls,” Harvey notes, suggesting that you assess the home’s wiring, plumbing, heating and cooling systems before committing to a purchase or renovation. “A lot of people don’t sign up for that.”

Scott Murray from Murray’s Pro Painting says you should consider what’s on the walls, too – especially regarding wallpaper. Wallpaper removal can be time-consuming, but most importantly, “It can ruin your walls and require major patching once it comes down,” says Murray. Adding, “Some older homes have multiple layers of wallpaper. If the walls weren’t prepped properly before hanging, you can be left with some damage.” He also suggests you take a good look at the ceilings. “It’s becoming more popular to remove popcorn ceilings but it’s a very messy job.” If your goal is to remove the popcorn, Murray recommends stripping the ceiling before moving in. In either case, if you’re not familiar with the process and have the budget, working with a professional for messy jobs is a great way to go.

It’s A Manageable Project

The definition of “manageable” is different for every homeowner, but your renovation experience, skills, budget and willingness to tackle a big project are all important factors that should be considered before buying a new home or renovating your current residence. Katie Campbell from Campbell & Co. Home in Waterdown warns, “There is only so much you know before demolition begins. We make educated guesses and assumptions based on years of experience, but the bottom line is no one can see through those walls.” Her best advice to anyone looking to renovate is to “have a budget for the unexpected.” So, before grabbing your sledgehammer, do your due diligence and decide if you’re mentally and financially prepared. “It’s those little costs that add up and ruin the experience,” Harvey adds, and inexperienced renovators may find themselves in over their heads. “If you run out of money [repairing things behind the walls], you can’t even get to the cosmetic stuff.”

But if the bones are good? You may end up with that HGTV-worthy interior after all.

Local Links

Murray’s Pro Painting
Murrayspropainting@gmail.com
905-299-4277

Campbell & Co.
Campbellcohome.com
416-988-3428

Duncan Harvey
harveymccreery.com
905-510-5995

by Erin Pepler

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Jeremy Parsons Mixes Up Something Delicious with Amazon Prime

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Reality series host and culinary mixologist Jeremy Parsons has fond memories of cooking in the kitchen with his mother and grandmother from an early age when he grew up in Burlington, Ontario.

While studying Philosophy at Western University, one of his friends approached him for help to mix drinks at a bar event. Jeremy began experimenting, taking his culinary knowledge and adding it to mixology. Parsons’ drinks immediately set him apart from everyone else. He then started thinking about textures, ingredients, and presentation. His appearance that night at the local bar changed his life. It turned out that the event was televised, and two days later Bacardi Canada called Jeremy to schedule a meeting.

Though self-taught as a chef and mixologist, Parsons has been working with many of the top liquor labels in North America for the past 25 years. He has participated in training programs with many big brands, learning from top master distillers and mixologists.

From the knowledge he gleaned, Parsons hoped to expand the limitations on mixology by adding his own flair . Around 2004, while working at Bacardi Canada events, the LCBO asked Parsons to open their in-store kitchens. His exposure kept attracting industry people. “They found an interest in my cocktails and my approach,” Parsons admits. 

In no time, opportunities came one after another. Parsons was featured in Bar and Beverage, and as a contributor for multiple magazines like Nightclub & Bar, Food & Drink, and Chatelaine.

Parsons co-wrote his first book Cold Tea at Three in 2005, at the age of 30. The book features innovative cocktail and food pairings as well as entertaining tips with stylish presentations. He founded his own beverage marketing and event management company Cocktails – The Fluid Experience in 1999, and has run thousands of events all over the US and parts of the Caribbean.

Jeremy was doing short reality tv clips internationally for Resource Media when he was asked if he’d be interested in doing a show with Amazon Prime. He pitched the idea of the Gastro Guru; a culinary mixologist hosting a traveling reality show. Amazon loved the concept, and filming has already begun to capture material in various locations. Episodes will be released for streaming early next year.

In 2021, Parsons and his wife created a two-day festival called Sip! Niagara Food & Drink Festival . Sip! Niagara will take place this year at a larger venue, the Charles Daley Park in Lincoln, as the popularity of the event is expected to attract over 5,000 guests this year. Parsons hopes to break the world record for the World’s Largest Caesar Bar, with more than 186 ingredients available for customizing. The event happens on October 1 and 2 from 12 pm to 7 pm.

While there, you’ll find numerous themed activation spaces, local and exotic cocktails, wines and beers, food vendors, bands playing, and local visual graffiti artists. Guests can go through at their own pace amongst the more than 200 food and drink samples available to try.

Partnering with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of North/West Niagara, Jeremy has arranged for a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales to go toward this organization. At no additional cost, he will also be conducting cooking classes with the kids, complete with swag bags.

Parsons reminisces, “Learning to cook is an amazing life lesson to impart to a kid. It reminds me of my time with my own mother and grandmother, time that had a significant impact on the direction of my life.” A rolling list of vendors and the entertainment lineup can be found on the Sip! Niagara website at www.sipniagara.com . You can also buy general access, food sampling and Caesar bar tickets in advance on the website.

by Michele Bogle

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Apple Fritters – We’ve Made A List Of The Best So That You Don’t Fritter Away Your Time

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There’s nothing like the fresh smell of apples, cinnamon, and sugar in the fall – baked in a pie, mixed in with some oats, and even topped with ice cream. But there’s one apple dessert that really frits the bill this season – golden, crispy, and warm apple fritters. They’re essentially an apple donut; apples dipped in a simple batter then deep-fried in oil. The real magic happens after they’re garnished with a light dusting of cinnamon and sugar. While fritters are relatively easy to make from home (and the perfect way to wrap up a day at the orchard), many local cafes and bakeries

The Sunshine Doughnut Co., Burlington

This Burlington doughnut shop didn’t arrive on the scene quietly in 2016. In fact, when the owners of Son of a Peach Pizzeria, Kim and Bartholomew Nadherny, staked out their location with a giant freestanding doughnut, no one could ignore it!

Almost half of Sunshine Doughnut’s customers travel from the GTA for the enormous doughnuts and oversized apple fritters. The $5 fritters are made fresh daily with hand-chopped local apples, topped with cinnamon sugar and a vanilla bean glaze. They’re made in small batches, and you are advised to order ahead. They seem to sell out.

Aveiro Bakery, Oakville

Aveiro Bakery in Oakville uses authentic Portuguese recipes passed on by generations. They offer artisan bread, custom cakes, and breakfast treats. Head Baker and co-owner Ricardo De Oliveira brings 15 years of experience to the bakery. Co-owner Priscilla De Oliveira is involved with day-to-day business matters, including customer service. Baked fresh every day, customers rave about how delicious the $3.75 apple fritters are at Aveiro’s.

Wallflower Doughnuts, Oakville

Wa llflower Doughnuts is perfectly situated within the Tribeca Coffee shop in Downtown Oakville. A co-brand for the six-yearold company, Wallflower Doughnuts’ co-creator Monika Kruszka launched her tasty line of treats in July 2021. Her signature style has been to adorn her doughnuts like a piece of art. Recognizing that an apple fritter requires its own identity, her unique version dons a Southern Comfort flavoured glaze, unlike any other, and they sell them for $50 for a baker’s dozen.

Monastery Bakery, Oakville

Mo nastery Bakery has been tucked away in a small strip mall in Glen Abbey in Oakville since 1990. This popular shop started small and kept expanding over the years, evolving into a one-stop shop for unique and essential food needs, as well as providing handmade bread, pizzas, pastries, cakes, and more. Everything is baked fresh in-house, and many agree that Monastery’s $1.69 apple fritters are at the top of the list.

Sweet Paradise Bakery, Waterdown And Hamilton

Sw eet Paradise Bakery has two locations – one on the Hamilton Mountain and the other at the edge of Burlington and Waterdown on Dundas Street. They describe themselves as an authentic Italian scratch bakery. They use no preservatives or additives, and have been known for their breadmaking and baking for more than 30 years. The owners advertise that their $1.25 apple fritters are the best in the city!

Copper Kettle Café, Waterdown

Copper Kettle Café in Waterdown identifies itself as “Your Waterdown Café with Fritters” on its website. Family-owned and operated, this shop offers a full food menu for patrons to sit in and enjoy. They also serve specialty coffees from local suppliers Firebat Coffee Roasters and Reunion Coffee. You can enjoy a great cup of coffee for $2.75 and spoil yourself with a fritter at the same price. If you adore the pillowy apple delight as much as I do, make an outing out of it. Try one a week and let your tastebuds decide.

by Michele Bogle

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Burlington Launches Mural with World Renowned Artist Kelsey Montague

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Montague’s unique design invites you to capture and share your visit to Burlington with beautiful street art.

Tourism Burlington is thrilled to announce that after years of exploring an iconic way to marry the perfect selfie with creative street art, the creation of the latest #WhatLiftsYou installation by Kelsey Montague, The Garden Swing, is here!

“Traditionally, destination marketing organizations and other placemaking groups have relied on large branded installations to bring attention to their destination,” said Kristene Smith, Executive Director of Tourism Burlington. “But marketing a destination is about more than just reinforcing the name of a geographic area. We want to showcase Burlington’s diverse offerings uniquely and creatively. We have an abundance of natural attractions, two unique business districts, activities, and events, year-round, for all ages.  It’s those experiences that make people fall in love with a place.  That’s what we wanted for Burlington; a connection to our place.” 

The mural design features five unique images of the city hidden within its design. Though they are not giving away what they are, or their location in the mural, keep an eye on Tourism Burlington’s social media for a contest for those who capture a selfie with all five images tagged. In addition to these hidden gems, the mural’s interactive component is a large jungle swing, featuring bright, vibrant florals, and enchanting green space, a nod to Canada’s largest Royal Botanical Gardens which is a few kilometers away.

“Kelsey creates large-scale, interactive street murals around the world. Kelsey has created work in Cape Town, Galway, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, Manchester, Nashville, Los Angeles, and New York City (among many others). Each piece provides an opportunity for people to become a ‘living work of art.’ Participants are encouraged to post pictures with the work on social media under the hashtag #whatliftsyou with the intent of making social media a kinder place.

Her work has been featured and/or commissioned by Taylor Swift, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Smithsonian and The Today Show.

With over 155,000 followers Kelsey uses her Instagram to continue to explore how art can, and should, weave itself into our daily lives.” says business partner and sister Courtney Montague.

“Burlington has a rich cultural footprint, known for its art gallery, museums, performing arts centre public art, and culturally diverse events. Kelsey’s style and desire for her murals to be interactive and memorable was a natural fit for visitors to Burlington. We are so grateful that residents will also be able to experience this beautiful piece of art for a long time to come”, says Executive Director, Kristene Smith.

The mural, located at the intersection of Elizabeth Street and Lakeshore Road, was commissioned by Tourism Burlington, and would not be possible without the generous support from and partnership with the Burlington Downtown Business Association and The Molinaro Group.

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A Salute To Mom – Mother’s Day Gift Guide

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For those of us who have lost track of time, it may come as a shock that Mother’s Day is just around the corner (Sunday, May 9th, folks). And like last year, things look a wee bit different for Mom. While you may be celebrating curbside, or virtually, or right at home, there are still many ways to show you care (and mom certainly deserves it). 

Several businesses in Oakville and Burlington are offering tasty treats and unique gifts through delivery and curbside pick-up. You may even be able to score a spot on a patio for a Mother’s Day meal. Here is our list of thoughtful, practical gifts for Mother’s Day during these strange times.

Decorate with Bubbles & Blush, Burlington

Bubbles & Blush is a local Burlington event planner who specializes in styling your event and bringing your vision to life. Recently, they have focused on Event Boxes which include everything you need to decorate your table for any special event. These boxes always include other local vendors to help support other small businesses.

This Mother’s Day you can spoil your mom by getting her a box that will help celebrate her day. Included in the box you’ll find plates, napkins, cutlery, candles, confetti, 10% off any future orders at Trattoria Timone (fine dining Italian restaurant in Oakville), a bottle of Sparkling Rose from Vineland Estates, cupcakes from Sinful and Sweet Desserts, and more. As an addition, you can add photos of you and your mom in the box as well as a breakfast tray to give an extra special gift.

Breakfast in Bed with Cozy Jammies

What a time to be alive when loungewear is TRENDING. PJ Salvage is a California contemporary brand specializing in luxury essentials and the pursuit of a comfy, casual lifestyle. They’re known for incredibly soft fabrics, gorgeous prints, meticulous attention to detail, and effortless, modern silhouettes, assorted over a beautiful collection of contemporary sleepwear and loungewear collections. You can pick up PJ Salvage at Joelle’s on Brant Street in Downtown Burlington, Linea Intima on Lakeshore Road in Downtown Oakville, and Good Night Good Morning in Bronte. 

Give Mom a Spa Day

This gift idea is perfect for the mom of toddlers – or even teens. At the end of a long day of balancing work, home, and family life – there’s nothing like sliding into a warm bath for a little pampering. Whether it’s bath salts, body scrubs, or essential oils, Maison Apothecare has everything you need to bring the spa home. Draw mom a bath, light her a candle, and give her the gift of peace (even if it’s just for five minutes). You can also grab some sugar scrubs, massage oils, or vegan bath soaks by Pink Posh Fox from The Handmade House. And if you want to help your mom relax, Bodega Wellness has a relaxing CBD Spray that’s perfect to use before bed (or, you can check out their CBD bathbombs).

DIY Gifts from the Kids

Paint mom a mug, jewellery tray, or flower pot with Crackpot Studio in Oakville. You can either paint in the studio or take home one of their popular at-home pottery kits. Each kit includes your pieces, paints, a sponge, painting instructions, two brushes per piece, and a wooden skewer for decorating! Or, pick-up a craft kit from Chickadee Kid’s Co. in Burlington. Mother’s Day craft kits come with everything you need to create simple crafts that mom and grandma will swoon over – a perfect way for little hands to say “I love you” to mom.

Grab Unique Gifts from Local Maker Shops 

Your mom is unique and deserves a one-of-a-kind gift that reflects her true charm. Thanks to our local makers and artisan shops, there are endless options to find that perfect gift. The Handmade House has cards, clothing, and accessories, especially for mom. While The Artisanville and
The Little Pop Up Shoppe in Burlington and Maker’s Mojo and Dove+Arrow in Oakville have carefully crafted, artisanal products ranging from décor, clothing, food, and more. Everything is available for either curbside pick-up – or delivery straight to mom.

Give Mom the Night Off

Whether it’s breakfast in bed, a late brunch, or mom’s favourite meal, many local restaurants are offering take-out, curbside pick-up, and even patio and in-person dining (and many will have Mother’s Day specials as well)! 

There you have it – from jammies to pampering and everything in between. A little local love will make mom feel ALL the love this Mother’s Day.

by Anneliese Lawton 

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Calling All Food lovers, Taste of Oakville is Back!

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We are happy to announce that Taste of Oakville will be returning this year with a new twist! From February 15 to March 6, 2021, participating restaurants in Bronte Village, Kerr Village, Downtown Oakville and across Oakville will be hosting prix fixe lunch and/or dinner menus available for takeout and delivery.

In the past, Taste of Oakville has solely been an in-room dining experience, but this year you will be able to enjoy a two- or three-course meal from the comfort of your own home.

Throughout last year, Oakville’s restaurants have adapted to the ever-changing circumstances by maintaining proper COVID-19 protocols, and will maintain their high safety standards during our Taste of Oakville event.

Keep your eyes peeled on Visit Oakville’s Instagram, as you could have a chance to win a gift card to a participating restaurant during our special prize giveaways leading up to and during the event.

Taste of Oakville is the perfect opportunity to explore some of Oakville’s wonderful restaurants and help support local businesses. Please visit our website atasteofoakville.com to see all participating restaurants and to find out more about our Taste of Oakville event.

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Downtown Oakville’s Hometown Holiday Experience

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Oakville, ON – It’s official. Downtown Oakville’s vibrant core is bustling once again. And there’s not better time than now to explore all the enhancements of its recent construction project. With travel halted due to COVID-19, many are spending the holidays right here at home – in Oakville. This holiday season, take advantage of being home and become a tourist in Oakville’s downtown. Rediscover its historic charm and explore the revitalized core featuring new installments and classic charm. 

To celebrate the 2020 holiday season, Downtown Oakville has created a heightened holiday experience, offering new sights and wonder. 

Introducing Downtown Oakville’s Hometown Holiday. From new dazzling décor to holiday happy hours and virtual gift guides, the Downtown Oakville BIA has pulled out all the stops to bring this season to life. 

On display from now until January 10th, 2021, there’s a must-see 30-foot Ribbon Tree of Lights and #DTOakville sign located in Towne Square. Centennial Square comes to life with a 3D illuminated ornament, matching archway, and beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Throughout the district, you’ll find spectacular lighting and décor, perfect for an evening stroll with family and photo-op. 

Don’t miss out on the this week’s special offers from participating stores and restaurants during Holiday Happy Hour from 6 pm to 7 pm (Dec 17,18 from 6-7 p.m.) and you can also support local by shopping our Virtual Gift Guide featuring over 100 unique items from Downtown Oakville businesses – all of which can be purchased with the click of a button. 

Lastly, everyone loves to give during the holidays. So, Downtown Oakville is giving you the chance to WIN (1) of (3) $500 gift cards to a Downtown Oakville business of your choice – truly a gift of shopping local. The contest ends Sunday December 20th, 2020 and you can enter here. 

Parking is FREE on weekends (until Dec 31st, 2020), weekdays after 6 p.m. and on holidays. Learn more about the parking program here. 

For updates on shopping experiences, visit and Instagram (@oakvilledowntown), Facebook (@downtownoakville) and Twitter (@oakvilledwntown). 

Click here for a full list of Downtown Oakville businesses. 

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Taste of Burlington is BACK!

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We really missed our summer Taste of Burlington program this year and are happy to tell you we’re back on this fall! Start planning where you will be dining because #TOB2020 starts this Monday, October 5 and runs until Sunday, October 25 at 35 participating locations.

Safety was of the utmost importance for us and all the restaurants involved when planning this year. Each restaurant has safety protocols in place for dine-in and, new this year, you will be able to order a prix-fixe meal for take-out, if you feel more comfortable dining at home. Menus are up on the site and you can see them here.

Also new to the program, this year is the free Taste of Burlington Passport. Use it to view menus, enter to win gift cards, and get great offers from participating restaurants (more info below).
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1st Annual Jeanine McLean Memorial Charity Motorcycle Ride

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1st Annual Jeanine McLean Memorial Charity Motorcycle Ride happens on September 13th, 2020 with registration at 9 am and kickstands up at 11 am.

This event will also feature a poker run, silent auction, and prizes, with a start and endpoint at Chuck’s Roadhouse, located at 1940 Appleby Line, in Burlington.  This is a charity motorcycle ride to raise money for Cambrian College nursing students (Sudbury, ON) that have had to overcome or deal with medical-related issues that may be physical, emotional, or mental challenges in their lives, to get to where they are today.  This ride is hosted by Jim McLean and supported by Guardians of the Children Toronto, in memory of Jeanine McLean, who had overcome many health difficulties growing up.

Jeanine was a vibrant and sparkling young woman, who was diagnosed and suffered from a heart condition, and at the age of 2 and a half, she spent time in Sick Kids where she received a pacemaker and continued as a patient up to the age of 16. Sadly, at age 24, she unexpectedly passed away peacefully in her sleep one evening due to a rare condition as a result of her pacemaker. It was during Jeanine’s years at Cambrian College that she decided on her career path as a Cardiac Nurse so that she could show gratitude for all the help she received from Sick Kids by giving back to other children suffering from cardiac illnesses. She sadly didn’t achieve her dream to complete her nursing studies at Cambrian, as she passed away entering into the 4th year of her nursing program.

So, we will ride for Jeanine to help achieve her dream, and all funds raised through Jeanine’s Memorial Ride will go directly to the Cambrian College Foundation’s Annual Jeanine McLean Memorial Bursary that the school created in 2015 as a tribute to Jeanine, that awards students enrolled in the nursing program. Let’s help keep Jeanine’s dream alive for years to come. 

Join us as we work together to assist other young adults to achieve their dreams in the nursing field.  $30/rider & $20/passenger.  If you do not have a motorcycle or don’t have the option of being a passenger and would still like to donate, you can make your tax-deductible donation by contacting Cambrian College Foundation at www.cambriancollege.ca/givetoday  (click ‘please direct my gift to’ there is a dropbox with Jeanine’s Memorial Award).

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