In Articles

Treble In Paradise – Oakville Symphony Orchestra Celebrates 50 Years

September 29, 2017 No Comments

Much like a piece of music can start with just a few simple notes and build towards an exciting crescendo, the Oakville Symphony began small and grew to something grand. This year mark’s their 50th anniversary.

The Oakville Symphony began with 25 musicians, and now has over 80 volunteer musicians plus 11 professionals providing leadership and direction. “We (also) have two original founding members of the orchestra who still play with us – Jean Grieve (cello) and Paul Lancaster (oboe),” says Anna Hewitt, Co-Chair of the Oakville Symphony Board of Directors. Ken Hollier was the founding conductor who sadly passed away during a concert in 1973. “He was known to be a funny, enthusiastic, passionate musician,” Hewitt says. “The orchestra vowed to keep going in his honour. He really inspired a lot of musicians to keep going and his widow is still a great supporter.”

As well as playing countless performances over the last 50 years, the symphony has many community outreach programs in place. One example is the Young Artist Program.

Auditions take place each June, and “this year we have 10 high school students who play with the symphony for the year,” notes Hewitt. “They bring an energy to the symphony which is great. They also benefit from being mentored by the professionals and the senior musicians. When you look at the stage, you see a huge range in ages. It’s pretty cool.”

Other examples of the orchestra’s presence in the community include the annual Young People’s Concert, participation at festivals and culture days, as well as performances in schools and some mini concerts that are held in the lobby of the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. This year, Hewitt says – thanks to some new sponsors – they’ll be able to perform at the Oakville Hospital and some seniors’ homes.

Today the Oakville Symphony is thriving. Under the inspired leadership of Maestro Roberto De Clara, it continues to present exciting and challenging programs for its audiences each season. Music is truly a universal language, and Hewitt notes that “the fact that it’s inclusive to everybody is great. It adds to the cultural fabric of the community.”

In addition to The Oakville Symphony Orchestra, there are several other orchestras in Hamilton, Burlington and Mississauga that enable you to enjoy an evening or afternoon of classical music close to home.

Symphony on the Bay, Burlington

Season: October 29 – May 13, 2018
The Symphony on the Bay began in 1973 as the McMaster Symphony Orchestra, left the university to become Symphony Hamilton in 1988, and rebranded as Symphony on the Bay in 2011 to reflect their role in the wider Hamilton-Burlington community. The current season lineup includes German Masters, Christmas classics, a crowd-pleasing Pops concert, Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Canadian composer Louis Applebaum’s Three Stratford Fanfares, and more.
symphonyonthebay.ca

Oakville Chamber Orchestra

Season: October 21 – May 6, 2018
For over 30 years now, the Oakville Chamber Orchestra (OCO) has presented ensemble music featuring favourite classics, contemporary music, and rare gems in intimate settings. This season’s lineup includes the magic of Mozart, Youth Concerto Competitions and more.
oakvillechamber.org

The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra

Season: September 23 – May 12, 2018
Reconnect with old classics from Beethoven and Haydn, replenish the senses with a celebration of Russian composers and revive musical passion with a tribute to West Side Story composer Leonard Bernstein. 9 performances in the 2017/18 Main Stage Series.
hpo.org

The Mississauga Symphony Orchestra

Season: October 14 – May 26, 2018
The Mississauga Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1972 as the Mississauga Symphonic Association, an amateur community ensemble. Based out of Hammerson Hall, a world-class theatre at the heart of Mississauga’s Living Arts Centre, and offering entertaining and increasingly sophisticated programs.
mississaugasymphony.ca

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

Oakville Symphony Orchestra
oakvillesymphony.com

Symphony on the Bay
symphonyonthebay.ca

Oakville Chamber Orchestra
oakvillechamber.org

The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra
hpo.org

The Mississauga Symphony Orchestra
mississaugasymphony.ca

In Articles

Cedar Springs – Back-to-Basics Retreat in the Post-Victorian Era

September 27, 2017 No Comments

There was a time when Muskoka was not the weekend destination of choice during the summer. Instead, just 15 minutes from Burlington, up Cedar Springs Road, is a community of the same name where families have gathered to spend time together away from the city since 1926.

The first person to settle on the land, originally part of Nelson Township, was Thomas Simpson, a veteran of the Napoleonic wars. He was given a crown grant of 100 acres, set sail from England, and upon arriving in 1814 made his way north. Much of the area remains the same as it was then. There’s been some modernization here and there but its ethos remains the same. Cedar Springs’ founder, W. D. Flatt, who first purchased timber rights on the northern section of the property in 1885, was a prominent lumber businessman, delved into real estate and also wrote two books. “One has to visit Cedar Springs to gain a proper appreciation of the true beauty of the camp,” he wrote. “Cedar Springs brings to one all the beauty, charm and spirit of restfulness that can only be otherwise obtained in the solitudes of the great Northland.” Today, this quiet Member’s Only getaway still embodies quintessential cottage life but without the headaches of the 400 series of highways.

In his sales brochure, Flatt’s description of the community paints a picture of an idyllic rustic retreat. “In spring Cedar Springs is without a rival. One stream resembling a small river flows through a charming valley for one mile, the entire length of the property. Two brooks wind their way through inviting avenues of shapely cedars where sparkling water plays merrily over moss-covered rocks. 35,000 brook trout have been placed in these streams. Excellent fishing should be enjoyed within two years.” Founding members who wanted to be a part of it all were looking at a cost of $750 to $2,000 for a log cabin and a plot of land. “The log cabin is in many ways the ideal holiday house,” he wrote. “It represents the return to the primitive, a complete escape from the everyday living; it is architecture gone back to nature and it provides a way for people to live in comfort.” Truer words that speak to any avid cottager were probably never spoken, rustic or luxury alike.

Members of Cedar Springs still uphold the traditions that Flatt established over 90 years ago with their strong sense of sharing and community spirit. 78 original cottages were built but today there are 84 privately owned homes that all have access to the nine-hole golf course (with no tee times to worry about), swimming in the fresh water pool, fishing, a small beach, clay surface tennis courts (with clinics), and hiking with connections to the Bruce Trail. The idea of an open, private golf course sounds tempting to any golfer, and this picturesque Brentholtz Golf Course carved into the hills of the Niagara Escarpment allows players to go for an impromptu nine holes at any time.

Event planning is still a key element that keeps the community together and friendships thriving. Every weekend in the summer, something different is happening. The club also hosts a number of annual events that include welcoming guests back to kick off the summer, a formal dance, and an annual Thanksgiving dinner. It turns out that you don’t need to go very far to reach the cottage. There are even some properties in the community for sale or for rent.

Flatt turned over management of Cedar Springs in 1931; he passed away in 1936 at the age of 74. Before giving up control of his passion project, he wrote a letter to the community. “The success I have attained in establishing a family playground that, in my opinion, is second to none on the continent has eclipsed my fondest dreams. It has only been made possible by the loyal, faithful and consistent co-operation of those employed on the grounds and the wonderful community spirit. I sincerely wish and pray that during the years to come the families that make up the community of Cedar Springs… will derive a satisfaction that I could measure by no higher standard than that I have played some part in contributing to the happiness of others.”

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

Cedar Springs Community Club
cedarspringscommunityclub.ca

Cedar Springs Community
cedarspringscommunity.com

In Articles

Be-Cider – Ontario’s cider industry is fruitful and flourishing

September 26, 2017 No Comments

Just the sheer number of cideries cropping up each year should inicate that if you haven’t tried Ontario cider recently (or since there was only one option on the menu), it’s time. Local cider houses are branching out and experimenting with new ingredients. They can be sweet, dry, tart and bubbly – complex drinks that offer refreshment and a range of flavours. You can experience tastings at an independent cider house, at home, or in restaurants that serve Ontario craft cider.

Nearly a decade ago there was one sole cidery in Ontario. Now, according to the Ontario Craft Cider Association (OCCA), there are 27 and the number is growing each year. Despite its long history throughout the world, it’s making a comeback again in North America. “This allows a lot of room for experimentation and the development of new styles, as well as refining traditional methods to evolve the industry in North America,” says Matt Speight, owner of 26 Acre Cider Co., in Pelham.

Embracing techniques from the wine-making industry, Chris Haworth, owner operator of West Avenue Cider in Freelton, experiments with aging some of his ciders in bourbon and tequila barrels. At Revel Cider in Guelph, they use Chardonnay barrels and spent gin botanicals from Dillon’s Distillery to give some of their ciders an infusion of spice, citrus and vanilla. “There’s a lot of experimentation now with herbs and spices and different foods,” says Haworth. “Basically anything you can get your hands on.”

The key to a good cider is the foundation, regardless of whether it’s infused with lavender, maple syrup or delicious Ontario peaches. “You have to start with a good base. You can make cider out of any type of apple, but if it eats well out of your hand it doesn’t make good cider,” explains Haworth. “The bitter, tart apples add different components and complexities. Golden russet is a great Ontario apple, as is northern spy. Once you’ve got that great base cider, you can adjust it with different (ingredients).”

Cider isn’t just for summer – not when other seasonal produce can be added to a recipe. “The industry itself continues to grow as consumers are consistently looking to try something new,” says Speight. Watch for West Avenue Cider’s fall “Smash me up Butternut”, made with heritage apples and co-fermented with roasted butternut squash; and “Scrumpkin”, fermented with wild yeast and pumpkin. Speight plans to release a small batch of ice cider, as well as using a few locally grown fruits to give their ciders deeper, richer and more complex flavours this winter. “Aside from that, we believe all ciders are a wonderful choice for a winter warmer.”

While the kids are looking forward to Halloween candy, we’ll be thinking of sipping our ciders on the patio or by the fire. We’ll also be giving thanks to the local farmers, growers and makers who are making the most of Ontario’s apples.

Sips &Tips | Cider Food Pairing

Perry
Made from pears, and is light, fruity, crisp and medium sweet. People mention notes of lychee, grape, almond and of course pears. Pairs well with: chicken, fish, olive oil-based pasta dishes, pulled pork or soft cheese such as Camembert or Brie.

Sparkling Cider
Can be varied in flavour, often features sweetness (caramel, orange) and spicy notes (cinnamon, nutmeg). Flavour also depends on time of pressing, fermentation methods and age. Pairs well with: cheddar cheese, pork chops, butternut squash, roasted vegetables, poultry (crisp, skin on). OCCA says if you’re pairing with cheese and the alcohol content is less than 5%, choose mild cheeses. Higher alcohol content ciders are best with strong, more pronounced flavoured cheeses.

Iced Cider
Not to be outshone by icewine, iced cider is made using naturally frozen apples in winter. This gives them a higher brix (sugar) concentration. The concentrated juice is fermented, yielding a very sweet, rich beverage. Pairs well with: foie gras, bacon, strong cheeses, blue cheese or cheesecake.

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

West Avenue Cider, Freelton
westavenue.ca

26 Acre Cider Co., Pelham
@26acrecider

Revel Cider, Guelph
revelcider.ca

Ontario Craft Cider Association
ontariocraftcider.com

In Arts & Events

National Craft Exhibition at Burlington Art Gallery

September 25, 2017 No Comments

Bringing together more than sixty makers from across Canada, Can Craft? Craft Can! will present works in glass, ceramics, wood, metal, and fibre that address three sub themes exploring ideas of Identity, Sustainability and Materiality.

The National Craft Exhibition is on now until October 29, 2017 at the Art Gallery of Burlington.

Exhibitions

National Craft Exhibition: Can Craft? Craft Can!
August 19-October 29, 2017
Bringing together seventy makers from across Canada, Can Craft? Craft Can! will present works in glass, ceramics, wood, metal and fibre that address three sub-themes exploring ideas of Identity, Sustainability and Materiality.

Craft Ontario Provincial Exhibition: Nothing is Newer than Tradition
August 19-October 29, 2017
Craft Ontario’s Nothing is Newer than Tradition will present the work of emerging Ontario makers that reflect a dedicated engagement with specialized skills and materials. The exhibition will explore how craft materials, tools and processes are creatively reiterated through the hands of a new generation of makers.

AGB Provincial Exhibition – Setting Ontario’s Table: Once Upon a Time
August 19-December 31, 2017
Drawing from the Art Gallery of Burlington’s Permanent Collection of Contemporary Canadian Ceramics, Once Upon a Time will present a special exhibition exploring functional ware from Ontario ceramists. Each artist selected will be represented through both a piece from their early years, juxtaposed against a recent work to explore the progression in their practice.

International Ceramic Exhibition – Anton Reijnders
September 9-October 29, 2017
Dutch ceramist Anton Reijnders will present his new work in a solo exhibition. Anton Reijnders graduated at the Fine Art Academy in Hertogenbosh in 1981. He participated in exhibitions throughout the world and contributed to conferences and symposia and has given lectures in Europe, Asia, Australia and the USA. He has contributed to the creation of what in 1991 was to become the European Ceramic Work Center (EKWC)—Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands. As head of studios and workshops of the EKWC Reijnders was involved in dialogue with artists from all over the world. He was the driving force behind setting up the material research program and is the author of the book The Ceramic Process jointly with the EKWC published by A&C Black in London, and Pennsylvania Press in the USA. He has been three times visiting professor in the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University.

Can Craft? Craft Can! includes the work of:

Pierre Aupilardjuk
Carole Baillargeon
Louise Lemieux Bérubé
Beth Biggs
Robert Brown
Teresa Burrows
Karen Cantine
Bridget Catchpole
Kai Chan
Janice Wright Cheney
Brigitte Clavette
Jess Riva Cooper
Brad Copping
Marie-Andrée Côté
Gabrielle Desmarais
Brothers Dressler
Robin DuPont
Susan Edgerley
Michael Flaherty
Reid Flock
Pascale Girardin
Matt Gould
Igah Hainnu
Barb Hunt
Elisapee Ishulutaq
Jean Kagyut
Kawtysie Kakee
Benjamin Kikkert
Catherine Kiliktee
Elsie Klengenberg
Sandra Ledingham
Lou Lynn
Janet Macpherson
Michael Massie
Bettina Matzkuhn
Paul McClure
Caroline Ouellette
Greg Payce
Luce Pelletier
Gord Peteran
Claudio Pino
Anne Drew Potter
Elizabeth Quiningnaaq
Shona Rae
Pamela Ritchie
Ruth Scheuing
Amir Sheikhvand
Wendy Shirran
Eva Siakuluk
Greg Sims
Anita Singh
Cheryl Wilson Smith
EartHand Gleaners Society
Despo Sophocleous
Susan Surette
Winnie Tatya
Ningeokuluk Teevee
Yvonne Thomas
Barbara Tipton
Anna Torma
Annie Tung
Jessica Vellenga
Angelika Werth
Zane Wilcox

In Articles

Wall to Wall – Making a Statement with Wallpaper

September 25, 2017 No Comments

We’ve been witnessing the re-incarnation of wallpaper for a few years now. Simply put, these are not the wallpapers of decades ago, but instead are wall coverings that breathe life into our spaces. From bold geometrics to vintage floral, with opulent metallic finishes or the natural uncomplicated look of grass cloth, we just can’t get enough of the design power of wallpaper.

Adding wallpaper to a space has the capability of delivering a large impact which simply goes beyond that of paint. A few rolls can transform and define your space in such dramatic and luxurious ways. Whether your room is large or small, wallpaper can instantly set a style, make a bold statement or add character and personality to an otherwise basic design. Don’t underestimate the power of wall coverings. Including it in your décor scheme can change a vastly spacious room by making it feel more intimate and cozy, just the same way a bold and busy pattern can transform a small room in your home to a charming and dynamic space. Crisp vertical stripes can be a clever solution to a room with low ceilings, and if you install your stripes horizontally, you can trick the eye and make the room appear broader and more spacious. Large patterns such as damasks and florals can be the perfect answer to camouflaging irregularities in your wall.

When you’re overhauling a room, regardless of the scale, designers are ideal sources of inspiration since they have easy access to the latest look books and they know what’s trending. Tori Brock, owner and accredited interior designer of Fairhome Interiors in Burlington, says the geometric trend has also caught her eye, as have the “beautiful and colourful botanicals and the softer visuals that look like a watercolour painting.”

There are so many options to consider when looking to “paper” your walls. Murals are finding new life, and we’ve been hearing a lot of hype about “peel and stick” papers as opposed to traditional wallpaper. This is a great option for those of us that are a bit “commitment phobic”. NuWallpaper has a pretty impressive line of removable designs and they claim that it “goes up in minutes and comes down in seconds”. Brewster, Graham & Brown, and York Designs also have some fabulous options, and Ruth Baker Design manufactures their product right here in Ontario. All of these companies create high-end custom printed paper murals and wallpapers that are simple to install, and not only can peel off your walls with relative ease, but are also re-usable.

Moving the indoors out, they can also print on materials that can be used outside for privacy screening or backdrops for special events – what a great way to add personality to your outdoors!

Become inspired with your walls and give them a burst of colour and texture. Remember, today’s wallpaper trends are about adding a “wow” factor to your space, so be selective about the walls or rooms you wish to highlight and make a statement with what you select. With the abundance of options available to us today, the only limitation is your creativity – and the amount of wall space you have available.

by Linda Mazur

Linda Mazur is a nationally recognized designer and Principal of Linda Mazur Design Group, known for creating relaxed stylish spaces and full-scale design builds in the Greater Toronto Area. lindamazurdesign.com

Local Links

Andersons, Burlington
andersoncarpetandhome.com

Burlington Paint & Wallpaper
burlingtonpaint.com

Painters Place, Oakville
paintersplaceblog.wordpress.com

Fairhome Interiors, Burlington
fairhome.ca

In Articles

Keep Calm and Throw Axes

September 22, 2017 No Comments

Have an axe you’d like to grind? How about one to throw, then? The puns are endless, but if you think you might enjoy hurling a sharp, heavy object at an inanimate, wooden target, Burlington’s Bad Axe Throwing is an axe-cellent outing for you plus a group of your friends, family, co-workers … and even your kids.

Founded in Burlington by CEO Mario Zelaya in 2014, Bad Axe Throwing now boasts 16 locations across Canada and the US, all with the same purpose: to have fun throwing axes. “It’s like the sport of darts with a target, but with an assigned lane,” says Melanie St-Amour of the marketing and development team at Bad Axe Throwing. “Participants can throw at the same time to make it more challenging, and there’s a bullseye to track points and lots of games you can play during a session.”

Pre-scheduled sessions with a minimum of eight participants take approximately 2.5 hours or so to complete, while weekly walk-in sessions can last as long as you want, at $20 an hour.

But how did this decidedly different pastime find its way into the mainstream? It all started when Zelaya and his brother-in-law were at a cottage casually tossing some axes and thought it would be great fun to develop for the public to enjoy as well. “It’s something different and unique,” says St-Amour. “Kind of a lumberjack thing, a Canadian thing. Something totally unique.” And St-Amour can vouch for the unique part: she tried it herself and loved it.

“I was nervous at first,” she says. “It does take a little bit to perfect your aim, but it’s so satisfying to hear the thud when it hits the wood and then you really want to continue to get better. Women are really good at it and actually make up 60 percent of the participants.”

Never thrown an axe in your life? Never even considered picking one up? No worries. Experienced hosts are on hand to help you heave your supplied weapon effectively and, most importantly, safely. “It’s very popular with young adults,” says Morgan Rutledge, a host at the Burlington location, “but kids can also participate with a little practice and assistance. Everyone can certainly improve even after a few attempts.”

And it’s also popular for a wide variety of outings, including bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, corporate events, fun get-togethers with friends, or even the occasional divorce celebration. St-Amour recalls a woman hanging her wedding dress over the target and she and her friends went at it.

Remember to dress casually and comfortably (you could even put on some plaid if you like), and if you’re still unsure, feel free to come, watch and cheer on your axe-wielding mates until you’re ready to hurl one yourself.

If you can’t gather together a group of eight friends or more, there are always walk-in axe throwing sessions, a first-come, first-serve open axe throwing experience in a communal throwing lane open to the public several times a week. It’s fun, safe, different and a definite ice-breaking topic for your next social event. And as Rutledge points out, “Well, who wouldn’t want to throw axes at walls?” Axe-actly.

by Allison Dempsey

Local Link

Bad Axe Throwing
badaxethrowing.com

In Community

Read Local: Writers in Residence

September 16, 2017 No Comments

The library has your local reading material! As a writer for young people, I know first hand the instant connection a local story setting can have on a young person. Burlington kids love knowing that something exciting can happen in their own back yard, it encourages them not only to read but to write themselves especially knowing the author lives close by too!

But also as a reader myself and a traveller I love reading stories from the places I’ve visited or, even better, about the place I live. Therefor to celebrate Canada 150, A Different Drummer Books owner, Ian Elliott and I worked together with Burlington public librarians to create a display that would show visitors and residents some locally produced literature.

This book display features 71 books from a variety of both children’s and adult’s authors and illustrators. The exhibit has already traveled to many libraries and will continue to December 2017. Visit the display and enjoy reading local:

· September – Brant Hills

· October – Central

· November – Aldershot

· December – Central

Submitted by Burlington children’s author, Sylvia McNicoll

In Blog

The Tipi Point: adventures in Muskoka

September 8, 2017 No Comments

Each summer especially (and other key times of year) untold numbers of people head up to Muskoka, reveling in the ultimate Canadian cottage experience. Others trek up north with tents. This summer, we travelled to Bracebridge to stay in a tipi.

inside tipi in bracebridge — Bunk selection & unpacking

Tipi Adventures is just minutes away from Downtown Bracebridge. Owners Jochen & Elke Schlichte gave up working and living in Newmarket, Ontario several years ago after buying the 80-acre property on Beatrice Road. Staying here is in a class unto itself. It’s not quite glamping and it’s definitely not your traditional camping. It’s quiet, peaceful, deeply intriguing and unique. During your stay you’ll see Jochen booting around the property on his ATV and you’ll hear him sawing wood for his next carpentry project or chopping firewood for guests to use in the campfire. He’s also happy to stop and chat in between his daily chores.

tipi bunkbeds in bracebridge — These are comfy!

Elke will oversee your check-in and give you a brief tour and outline the rules of the kitchen, waste disposal (I sure didn’t want to tempt any bears with garbage) and other housekeeping details. Although you’re required to bring your own food, she makes a delicious coffee – and hot chocolate for the kids. Upon arrival and during our tour she asked if I wished coffee and also something for the girls. The next morning Jochen delivered our Thermoses of hot coffee and hot chocolate to the door of our tipi. It was so nice to start the morning by heading over to the kitchen area, sitting at the picnic tables and relaxing with our hot drinks.

tipi adventures kitchen area — Kitchen, eating area, washrooms and wash stations.

Each of the three tipis is themed: spirit bear, howling wolf and buffalo. The inside and outsides were all hand painted by an artist named Maladka. The photos of the tipis are deceiving, because in fact they’re huge! Even though I realized ahead of time that they accommodate up to 10 people, it’s way different than picturing a 10-man tent. Beds line the outside perimeter of each tipi; in the middle is a small table perfect for board games if it’s a rainy day (there are some games in the kitchen for guests to borrow). The girls didn’t have to fight over who got the top bunk, since there are four sets of bunks in each one. I took the queen-sized futon, which was pleasingly comfortable. There’s a fully charged lantern provided, as well as a small soft cupboard by the door with dishes, utensils, cutlery and dish racks for washing up.

In the enclosed kitchen cabin, everything’s there to whip up breakfast, lunch or dinner. I kept things on the simple side (milk, cereal and fruit), but another group of guests cooked up bacon, eggs and hash browns on the gas stove. There’s also cold drinking water, and fridge to store cold items, though you have to leave room for everyone. Behind the picnic and kitchen area are private outdoor showers with a change room, clean waterless toilets, hand and dish washing stations. We ate our breakfast under the covered picnic table area and there are also BBQs available to grill up something good. The kitchen is equipped with shelves, stove/oven, cupboards & a small fridge, table & chairs, drinking water dispenser.

tipi adventures campfire — An iconic Muskoka setting.

Jochen graciously set up and started the campfire for us. At one point I was the sole person sitting around the circle, since the kids were off looking for frogs and the other guests were over playing a game of badminton. It was a rare bliss sitting alone, just listening to the crackling fire.

There are 5kms of marked trails to walk or bike – and snowshoeing in the winter. There’s also a soccer field/badminton court near the picnic area and when winter calls, you can skate on the pond or bring your own sleds to rush down the toboggan hill. and Offering 5km marked trails for walking, hiking, mountain biking & snowshoeing. We were staying only one night. After check in we chose to hang out at the pond with the other family also staying the night. The kids busied themselves with the other two kids, marveling at the pond that was teeming with tadpoles, frogs of various sizes, and even leeches. Nobody needed to grab the salt though! There is also a small rowboat to borrow, or you can stand along the bank and fish quietly.

tipi adventures wildlife — Lots of creatures to hunt for. We put them back safe and sound.

The whole property teems with wildlife; the question is whether or not you’ll be lucky enough to spot big animals. There are bears and moose of course (though we didn’t see any) and lots of different species of birds, butterflies and frogs. Tipi Adventures has been recognized as one of the top vacation destinations in the world by National Geographic magazine (10 Best Trips in Canada picked by National Geographic). It was also recommended Reader’s Digest 2014 and MSN Travel.

I can only imagine how beautiful it would be to stay there in the fall; I bet the leaves have already begun their magical transformation. How magical it would be to spend a few wintry nights cozy inside the tipi. Next time, perhaps.

tipiadventure.ca

In Articles

Adults Aren’t Too Cool For School – Head Back to Class & Learn Something New

August 31, 2017 No Comments

Going back to school isn’t just for kids anymore. Local high schools, colleges and universities in Halton now offer such a wide range of programs for adults that it’s tempting to join the kids when they head back to the classrooms in the fall. We have so many opportunities to change career track, learn a new language or upgrade skills and knowledge, and it’s all local.

Here is a sampling of what’s available at three local schools:

Gary Allan High School

There’s a course at Gary Allan High School in Burlington called Designing your Future, which is an apt description for the school’s overall selection of continuing education programs. The school offers a wide range of adult continuing education programs in many areas and offers credit and non-credit courses and classes in English as a Second Language, skilled trades and job search.

The classes come in various forms, from night school to summer school, co-operative learning and online learning. In the area of skilled trades, the board partners with The Centre for Skills Development and Training and offers a free 20-week career and trades exploration program that includes hands-on training in manufacturing, electrical and construction.

Language courses for adults have grown in popularity and Gary Allan now offers Korean, Arabic, Urdu, Mandarin, Romanian, German and Spanish. While German has been one of their most popular courses, there has been increased interest in Spanish and for the first time, they are offering Romanian this fall. Mandarin was started about three years ago and has also become one of their most popular languages.

Their online classes include English, math, science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), and computers, as well as photography, nutrition and health and parenting. Math and English are popular with adults who want to obtain their OSSD (Ontario Secondary School Diploma) to open up career opportunities. There are even correspondence courses for inmates at the Maplehurst and Vanier Prisons to help them prepare for jobs when they’re released.

Sheridan College

At Sheridan College’s Faculty of Continuing and Professional Studies, you can take general interest classes on everything from Psychology Core Concepts to The History of Chocolate, as well as college prep courses in both Math and Science. There’s also the Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) program, which is a high school equivalency program for adult learners looking to achieve their educational goals. With classes offered online, in-person, and in a specialized hybrid environment, adult learners can look forward to tackling their passion in Digital Photography, Bereavement Studies, Small Business Bookkeeping, Home Inspector Training, and many other areas of study.

Sheridan promotes over 450 courses while providing flexibility with courses ranging from one-day workshops to 14-week programs. Sheridan currently boasts such popular programs as Accounting and Finance, Human Resource Management, Project Management, Visual Design Interior Decorating, and French. Due to their popularity and many requests for more technology based courses, the College is launching new technology-related programs for their fall semester. “We’ve seen an increased interest in technology and analytics, which is why we launched our Data Science certificate for the upcoming term”, says Marcela Velez-Pulgarin, Program Manager for Sheridan’s Faculty of Continuing and Professional Studies.

DeGroote School of Business

The image most of us have of the McMaster University DeGroote School of Business is that it’s a full-time academy for budding MBA students. In fact, the South Service Road school in East Burlington offers a number of short-term classes during the day and night that are Executive Education courses targeted to mid and senior level managers, directors, executives and entrepreneurs. The Executive Education programs are split up into the areas of healthcare leadership, executive management and continuing education-style programs.

by Denise Davy

Local Links

Gary Allan High School, Burlington
garyallan.ca/adult-students

The Centre for Skills Development and Training
thecentre.on.ca/skilledtrades

DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University
execed.degroote.mcmaster.ca

Sheridan College
caps.sheridancollege.ca

In Articles

WORK(shop) IT – Step into the Mind of a Maker and Create Your Own Piece

August 30, 2017 No Comments

There’s definite satisfaction in saying, “I made that!” Whether it’s a bath bomb, a piece of pottery, a barn board clock or a pillow, there are plenty of opportunities to tap into some of your creativity during a workshop.

If you’re in the market for some made-by-you pieces as gifts or for your own home, here is a selection of local workshops to attend. Where specific time or date information isn’t yet available, keep checking each location’s website or social media for further details.

AGB, Burlington

The Art Gallery of Burlington welcomes creative people of all skill levels and abilities. Here’s your chance to experience some studio time like a true artiste.

Sip & Paint Social
Uncork your creativity with a painting class that includes an evening of light-hearted socializing. Follow the host (an AGB studio instructor and practicing artist) as you are guided with entertaining demonstrations to recreate a selected painting. Join for a drink and a few laughs; bring a friend or meet new friends.
Friday, September 29, or November 3, 7 – 9pm
$55/per person
Friends & Couples Clay Date
Looking for something different to do with your friends or on date night? Enjoy a night of creativity and fun! You’ll learn to shape an object (mug, bowl, etc.) out of clay and decorate it with coloured slips.
Friday, September 15, October 20 or November 17, 7 – 9:30pm
$45/per person

agb.life

Dove + Arrow, Oakville

One of Downtown Oakville’s newest retail spaces that carries a unique collection of artisan, small batch, Canadian made goods. Create your own personalized items, such as family name trays, name signs, pillows, bracelets, trendy blanket ladders and welcome signs.
Cost: $49 – $149 depending on workshop
@DoveandArrowShop

Nuworld Botanicals, Oakville

Make your own fresh, all-natural skincare products in these DIY workshops. Craft personalized skincare products including body scrubs, clay masks, face oils, body butters, lip balms and more. Workshops run three to four times per month. Private blending parties can also be arranged for groups of six to 15 people.
Fee: $30 – $50
nuworldbotanicals.com

The Millionaire’s Daughter, Oakville

DIY workshops by Brenda of “Image of xprshn”. Workshops are based on the current trends in home decorating and design and customers’ interests. Workshop fee includes all materials and a light snack.
Workshop Fee: $60
Footstool Make & Take: September 27
(Oakville store 427 Speers Road), 5 – 9pm
Sign up by emailing Brenda at brenbradica@gmail.com

Reverie Gardens, Oakville

Perfect for younger makers. Create an Enchanted Lantern or Outdoor Garden to attract the magic of fairies, gnomes and more. Little artists can dream up their own magical scene. Workshop includes everything needed to build an illuminated Enchanted Lantern featuring fairies, gnomes, mermaids, pirates and more.
Cost: $45 per child
@reveriegardens

Centro Garden, Burlington

The team at Centro Garden are true pioneers of the artisanal workshop. These garden and décor experts continually offer fresh greenery display classes perfect for inside and outside the home. Try your hand at making fall planters for the porch or a perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving.

Apple Crate Planter: September 19, 7-8pm / $100
Fall Planter Workshop: September 18 & 20, 7–8pm / $25
Succulent Bowl: September 25, 7-8pm / $50
Terrarium Workshop: September 26, 7-8pm / $80
Mini Succulent Log: September 27, 7-8pm / $55
Thanksgiving Centrepiece: October 4, 7-8pm / $60

centrogarden.com

Perfectly Natural, Burlington

All-natural bath and beauty products made with fair-trade, responsibly harvested and renewable ingredients. Some workshops – such as the Bath Bomb nights – are modeled after the popular paint and sip outings. Each person gets a glass of wine and basic instruction, and is then encouraged to use scent and colour to create their own masterpieces. Maximum four people per class.
Friday evening, Saturday evening, and Sundays are open to requests as well as one on one instruction.

Soap Making: Saturdays, 10:30am – 2:30pm / $175
Bath Bombs: Thursdays, 7:30 to 9:30pm / $50
Lotion Making: Sundays, Noon – 3pm / $150
Soy Candles: Mondays & Wednesdays, 7 – 8:30pm / $75

perfectlynatural.ca

Pure Boutique, Burlington

Whether it’s an old piece of furniture you want to refresh with new colour and a coat of paint, or you want to create décor pieces for your home, Lori and her team will show you how. These workshops give you the tools and materials you need to transform, craft and create.

Drab to Fab: September 17, October 15, November 12 – bring your own piece and paint, distress, and finish your furniture (light lunch, coffee/tea and dessert included). 11am – 3pm / $125
Farmhouse Clock: September 21, 5:30 – 7:30pm / $150
Blanket Ladders: October 5, 5:30 – 7:30pm / $150
Barnboard Market Sign: October 19, 5:30 – 7:30pm / $90
Stenciled Pillow: November 2, 5:30 – 7:30pm / $90

pureboutique.ca

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

Art Gallery of Burlington
agb.life

Dove+Arrow, Oakville
@DoveandArrowShop

NuWorld Botanicals, Oakville
nuworldbotanicals.com

The Millionaire’s Daughter, Oakville
themillionairesdaughter.com

Reverie Gardens, Oakville
@reveriegardens

Centro Garden, Burlington
centrogarden.com

Perfectly Natural, Burlington
perfectlynatural.ca

Pure Boutique, Burlington
pureboutique.ca

trinity

Symphony on the Bay, Burlington

Oakville Chamber Orchestra

The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra

The Mississauga Symphony Orchestra

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

Sips &Tips | Cider Food Pairing

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

Exhibitions

by Linda Mazur

Local Links

by Allison Dempsey

Local Link

Submitted by Burlington children’s author, Sylvia McNicoll

Gary Allan High School

Sheridan College

DeGroote School of Business

by Denise Davy

Local Links

AGB, Burlington

Dove + Arrow, Oakville

Nuworld Botanicals, Oakville

The Millionaire’s Daughter, Oakville

Reverie Gardens, Oakville

Centro Garden, Burlington

Perfectly Natural, Burlington

Pure Boutique, Burlington

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

looklocal.ca