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A Burlington Mom’s Viral Post on Motherhood Landed Her A Book Deal – And She’s Our Editor!

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In September 2018, our editor, Anneliese Lawton, took to Facebook to write about the differences in post-op care between her c-section and her parotidectomy (a surgery to remove her parotid gland after a tumor was found wrapped around her facial nerves). She couldn’t understand why the two surgeries had such different post-op experiences. The post, which described her struggles with postpartum depression and accessing postpartum resources, went viral in just hours. Six million moms from all over the world nodded in unison, all agreeing that support for postpartum mothers, especially those struggling with their mental health, was far from perfect. There was (and is) work to do, and Anneliese has made it her life’s work to advocate for change.

I am proud to announce that this October an extension of that post will be hitting shelves at all major bookstores (and some incredible local businesses), as Anneliese releases her new (and first) book, Welcome to the Jungle: A Frantic Journey Through Motherhood and Self-Discovery. Anneliese believes that getting lost in motherhood is easy – but what’s not easy is understanding why. While navigating motherhood and facing the unexpected (back-to-back high-risk pregnancies, postpartum depression, and a rare tumour), she had an awakening. 

Throughout this memoir, Anneliese pinpoints the moments in her life where she truly lost herself, as she comes to understand the power motherhood holds in finally discovering her true self. Filled with unfiltered thoughts and perspectives on womanhood, Welcome to the Jungle isn’t just another parenting book on the highs and lows of motherhood; it will spur a conversation that mothers didn’t know they needed to have.

Local businesses Vereda Central and Chickadee Kids Co will be hosting book signings this October.  You can follow Anneliese on Instagram @annielawton_ to keep up with her appearances and book tour. 

You can purchase Welcome to the Jungle as of October 1st at Artisanville in Burlington, Lakeside Livin’ in Oakville and Piper’s Closet in Hamilton, in addition to Chapters, Indigo, Coles, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon. 

Congratulations Anneliese! 

By Tim Root

www.annelieselawton.com

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Cool Libraries For Kids to Explore

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While a trip to the library certainly means getting some new books, Oakville and  Burlington libraries have much more to explore than racks of books. From indoor play structures to programs and toys, you can spend a whole day at the library and not be bored. We’ve rounded up some of the best libraries in the region for kids.

Burlington Public Library, Tansley Woods Branch 1996 Itabashi Way

Here’s a place you could spend the entire day. The library is inside Tansley Woods Community Centre, home to a public pool and the “big blue water slide.” You’ll find a free indoor play area outside the library doors with a treehouse structure that looks out at the Centre’s swimming pool. “The Treehouse,” as it’s often referred to, is perfect for toddlers and young kids to climb, slide, and burn off some energy. Tansley Woods Community Centre also houses a beautiful garden outside that you can access from the indoor playground with a picnic area perfect for taking a snack break. The library houses a small kid’s section. There are no toys or activities available in the library itself, but the indoor playground makes the trip worthwhile for young kids. Behind the community centre is the Itabashi Garden – a beautiful Japanese garden to explore. There is also a fun trail into the woods and a playground a short distance away.

Burlington Public Library, Central Branch 2331 New Street, Burlington

Burlington’s Central Library branch features a dedicated kid’s area on the second floor. The play area features a giant wooden play structure with a big green slide perfect for burning off a little energy. Children will also love the train table and giant foam blocks on the floor. It’s a great place to come and meet other kids while getting the wiggles out.

The rest of the floor features plenty of seating for adults to enjoy reading a book or doing a little work while the kids play. There are also several computers with games and some toys and wooden puzzles on tables around the floor and a craft table for kids feeling a little artistic. The Central Branch offers many programs for children of all ages, from family story times to STEM programs for older kids.

You can head outside the library for fun in Central Park’s play structure on a nice day. The park has rubber flooring that the kids love to bounce on and is very toddler friendly.

Oakville Public Library, Central Branch 120 Navy Street, Oakville

Located in Downtown Oakville, the Central Library is a bright, kidfriendly space with an entire floor dedicated to children’s reading and play. There is no shortage of kid’s books in this library, with lots of cute reading nooks for kids to curl up in with a few books. Many windows let in natural light, and a few comfy seating areas overlook the gardens. There’s also a train table and several play stations with fun literacy activities.

Oakville Public Library, Glen Abbey Branch 1415 Third Line, Oakville

Oakville’s Glen Abbey library recently underwent a renovation. There is a lovely outdoor patio off the kids’ zone where you can enjoy a snack or picnic lunch. Glen Abbey library is also home to the Creation Zone, a space offering free access to maker technology. They also provide programs for school-age children who have an interest in creation. Families looking to explore and create using the Creation Zone technology can book an appointment for self-directed use or choose to work with the guidance of the Creation Specialist.

by Lisa Evans

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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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Familia Fine Food’s Beef Empanadas

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Ingredients

Dough:

• 2 cups of Pan pre-cooked yellow or white corn meal (available at Familia)
• 2 ½ cups water
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt
• Frying oil (to cook empanadas)

Filling:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 ½ cups onion, chopped tomato, pepper and garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb of potatoes
• Chopped fresh cilantro, to taste
• Salt and pepper

 

Method

1 To make the dough, pour water, oil and salt in a bowl. Add Pan corn flou . Mix well with a wooden spoon and let the dough rest for 2 minutes. Knead for 2 additional minutes. Set aside in a lidded container.

2 To make the filling fry the vegetables in a pan and add the tomato paste. Add beef and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, add cilantro at the end of the process. Add salt and pepper to taste. In a separate bowl, boil the potatoes and then mash them. You can use cream and butter if you like, or simply mash with salt and pepper. Combine potatoes with the beef and vegetable mix to create the filling

3 Divide the dough into 12-15 equal portions and form small balls. Place a sheet of plastic wrap on a fl t surface and fl tten the balls to form ¼ inch thick dough discs. Place a portion of filling in the cent e of each one, fold the dough in a half-moon shape, join and seal the edges with a circular mold (a cup or small bowl works well). Then, remove excess dough. 

4 Deep fry until golden brown. Drain over paper towels and serve while hot. Always remember to serve with some kind of dip or sauce, even lime wedges are amazing with empanadas.

 

Familia Fine Foods
3245 Harvester Rd Unit 17, Burlington
(905) 632-9299
familiafinefoods.com

 

 

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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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Burlington’s La Salle Park: What’s in a Name?

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The name ‘La Salle’ can be found attached to everything from schools to entire cities. It probably conjures up an image of a “great explorer” but let’s dig a little deeper and uncover some of the risks in naming things after historical figures.

René-Robert Cavelier Sieur De La Salle was born in 1643 into a well-to-do merchant family in Rouen, France. Described by his Jesuit teachers as both talented and unquiet, he studied with them for several years before leaving the order, creating a rift between him and that powerful sect and an early showing of his talent for making enemies. 

Having few resources but many connections to New France, he made his way to the island of Montreal in 1667 where he obtained a seigneury from the Suplician Order of the Catholic Church. After a couple of years, he sold most of it back to the order, who had given it to him for nothing, netting a sum to fund his ambition of exploring the New World. He set out to find the Ohio River and what he thought would be a lucrative trading route to China, based on the prevalent hazy grasp of world geography. 

La Salle’s quest for the Ohio aligned with the missionary program of Suplician Dollier de Casson with whom he joined forces. That order, having assessed La Salle’s changeability, supplied one of their own, Bréhant de Galinée, as cartographer – although Galinée rated himself barely adequate for the task. Joining La Salle’s party was a Dutch interpreter, with little grasp of French, and so of little utility. Lacking a guide and with minimal experience in the woods, and as La Salle was an indifferent navigator, it is amazing that they got anywhere at all.  

They left Montreal in early July and had many challenges, yet by some wonder managed to reach Lake Ontario by August 10. One can reasonably assume that they had local Indigenous aid and guidance along the way. After some delays related to the Seneca having understandable misgivings about allowing the French access to the territories of their rivals, the party reached Burlington Bay in September 1669. Here La Salle came down with a fever which Galinée attributed to him being startled by three rattlesnakes he saw while climbing a rock. Not long after, La Salle informed the Suplicians that he was too ill to continue and would return to Montreal, except he didn’t return until at least ten months later.

It’s during this gap that La Salle’s biggest supporters claim he discovered the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Leaving aside the fact that these rivers were very well known to Indigenous Peoples and therefore didn’t need discovery, there’s no real evidence to support that he found either river between the fall of 1669 and the summer 1671 as has been claimed.

This is just the beginning of the stories of La Salle’s exploits, which ended in a series of tragedies and his eventual murder at the hands of his own men. Whatever his debatable accomplishments and skills as an explorer, it is indisputable that he had great perseverance and determination. It’s also clear that he was impulsive, erratic and often careless with the lives of his followers.

So why are so many places named after him? Essentially, his travels became the subject matter for popular histories, which were really adventure novels. The first was released in 1683 by Father Louis Hennepin, a missionary who had accompanied La Salle in person.  Even more influential were the late 19th century writings of Francis Parkman. The elevation of La Salle to legendary status, and the 254th anniversary of the man himself possibly being in the neighbourhood, was likely the impetus for local politicians deciding to change the name of Wabasso to La Salle Park in 1923.

Leased by the City of Burlington today, visitors can enjoy the picturesque 1917 dancing pavilion, stately swans, hiking trails, and a kiddie splash pad. It’s definitely worth a visit even if there’s a lesser state of adventure than there was in 1669, as these days there’s no sign of rattlesnakes.

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Cheesecake with Preserved Rhubard & Chocolate Crumble

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This delicate cheesecake is the perfect finale to a memorable meal out. Wow your friends at home with this easy recipe, or enjoy it on the menu at Beacon this summer!

 

Ingredients: 

  • 950g Cream Cheese
  • 6 Eggs
  • 10 tbsps Sugar 
  • Juice of 1 Lemon
  • 2 tbsps Flour
  • 1 tbsp Corn Starch 
  • 1 tbsp Vanilla 
  • 680 ml 35% Cream

Method:

  1. Blend the eggs, sugar and 35% cream until smooth. Then add the cream cheese, vanilla and lemon juice and blend again. Finally, add the flour and cornstarch and blend. 
  2. Once smooth, add everything into your pan and bake for 22 minutes at 450 F.
  3. While the cheesecake is cooling, you can make the preserved rhubarb topping. Chop rhubarb into a pot, add sugar (depending on how much rhubarb and how sweet you want it) and a dash of lemon. Bring to a simmer and cook until thick. Allow to cool. 
  4. Assembly: Cut a piece out and top with the preserved rhubarb and garnish with a chocolate crumble and you’re ready to enjoy! 

Then viola! Done! A perfect cheesecake. 

Beacon Social House

305 Lakeshore Road E, Oakville

(905) 337-3777

beaconsocialhouse.com

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Jazz on the Plaza returns to Burlington

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Get ready for a hot weekend of jazz downtown Burlington this summer! Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) is excited to invite you to our outdoor Plaza on the weekend of August 13 and 14th to enjoy the amazing sounds of Amanda Martinez, Shuffle Demons, Clerel and Laila Biali.

“With Covid restrictions lifted, we are thrilled to return to the original roots of Jazz on the Plaza in offering this exhilarating weekend of music to the community. Historically it has been an event Patrons can attend at no cost and we are excited to be able to go back to those origins and host it as an open event yet again,” says BPAC Executive Director, Tammy Fox. “Is there anything better than enjoying an outdoor concert in the summer months?”

This is not a ticketed event and therefore we recommend arriving early to secure a great seat in the plaza! The show will go on, RAIN OR SHINE! Bring your favourite folding chair, a hat for some shade and get ready to enjoy the weekend! The performances will be held 4pm and 6pm Saturday August 13th and 2pm and 4pm on Sunday August 14th.

About the Performers:

Amanda Martinez (Saturday August 13, at 4pm)
Amanda Martinez is a Toronto-based singer/songwriter whose music exultingly blends her unique Mexican and South African roots with flamenco soul. Her solo CDs have garnered her multiple nominations for Latin Jazz Performer of the Year, and her songs have appeared on three Putumayo
world music collections: Bossanova Around the World, Latin Dreamland and most recently, Cafe Latino. Her third and latest CD “Mañana” was helmed by GRAMMY-winning producer Javier Limón and is set for release in 2013. Limón, whose production credits include acclaimed singers such as Buika, Mariza and Diego el Cigala, hails Martinez as “one of the greatest voices in the world.”

Martinez has headlined at the legendary Blue Note jazz club, at the 2010 FIFA World Cup Festivities in South Africa, and at the 2011 PanAmerican Games in Guadalajara, and is now honorary co-chair of PanAm 2015’s Ignite program. She will be performing in a series of countdown concerts to the 2015 Games, as well as speaking at events connecting athletes and sports fans with musicians and art lovers.


The Shuffle Demons (Saturday August 13, at 6pm)
The Shuffle Demons are a high-energy Canadian band that blends virtuosic jazz and funk playing with eye-catching costumes and over the top stage antics to produce an incredible show. A hit at festivals all over the world, the Shuffle Demons are a crowd pleasing, full-on musical group that backs up wild stage antics with phenomenal playing by some of Canada’s most talented musicians. The electrifying musical fusion that The Shuffle Demons brought to life almost 30 years ago has entertained audiences around the world with their genre bending sound. Saxophones, upright bass, and wild percussion backed up by incredibly solid musicianship and a highly entertaining show will leave you wanting more!

Clerel (Saturday August 14, at 2pm)
Breakout Montreal based vocalist/songwriter has been dubbed the next ‘Leon Bridges of Canada’. His warm voice captivates and takes your breath away, and wins over the audience in seconds. Enjoy his breezy and soulful music, that earned him a spot on Stephen Colbert’s Late Show. Hailing from French Camaroon, Clerel’s cultural influence can be heard and felt in his music. His music is also heavily influenced by American soul and jazz with deep roots in his experiences as an African immigrant living in the West. Experience the African drum beats coupled with guitar and trumpets in songs such as Lonely Dance. A beautiful fusion of instrumentation layered with Clerel’s melancholic lyrics.


Laila Biali (Saturday August 14, at 4pm)
Laila Biali takes the best of pop, rock, classical, world and soul, informs it with her expertise in jazz, and weaves it into her musical arrangements and original songs. Laila has presented her music at prestigious venues spanning five continents including the North Sea Jazz Festival, Tokyo’s Cotton Club, Peru’s El Festival Internacional de Lima, and Carnegie Hall in New York City. The talented Biali is a multi award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter and pianist and has toured with Chris Botti, Paula Cole, Suzanne Vega and recorded with and supported Sting. Her accolades include “SOCAN Composer of the Year” and “SOCAN Keyboardist of the Year” at Canada’s National Jazz Awards.

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Show Yourself a Little Love – It’s Solo Date Days!

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The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) is preparing to launch its exciting new Solo Date Days digital passport program.

The Solo Date Days pass takes you through Burlington Downtown on a journey of self-discovery and appreciation. Stop in at 11 different downtown businesses and enjoy some shopping and pampering while discovering and supporting local.

The pass is free to sign up for and easy to use. Once you have signed up for your pass, you will receive an email or text notification to your phone, allowing you to easily save the pass to your phones home screen. Simply open the pass when visiting a participating business to check-in and start your experience! Participating businesses include retail businesses, personal and wellness services, casual dining and more.

Contest prizing is available to those participating in this pass. The first user to complete all 11 check-ins and / or redemptions will win a $100.00 Burlington Downtown GIFT CARD. The second and third users to complete all 11 check-ins and / or redemptions will win a $25.00 Burlington Downtown GIFT CARD each.

“The Solo Date Days pass encourages residents and visitors alike to enjoy some pampering and self-love while supporting downtown businesses,” says Alison Policicchio, Marketing Manager for the BDBA, adding “whether you’re ending a long week, getting ready to start a new one, or just looking for some quiet personal time, there is a stop on this pass for everyone. You get all the feel-good vibes while making a powerful impact in your community, and that’s really something.”

The Solo Date Days pass will run from July 4th, 2022 to August 7th, 2022. Sign up today for free at: https://burlingtondowntown.ca/the-solo-date-days-pass-is-here/

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Movies by the Lake is back at Spencer Smith Park!

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The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) is excited to launch a new season of Movies by the Lake.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Ontario, Movies by the Lake invites moviegoers to Spencer Smith Park for a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. Audiences can enjoy a free, outdoor film select Tuesday nights July through August. Films are chosen with all audiences in mind, with genres ranging from comedies to dramas to adventure films.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets for optimal comfort during the films. There will be snacks available for purchase from both The North Coal (credit cards accepted) and Cine Starz Burlington (cash only).

“The signs of summer are all around us and Spencer Smith Park is no exception!” said Brian Dean, Executive Director of the BDBA.

Dean went on to say, “Every Tuesday at dusk Spencer Smith Park will come alive. You can bundle your own “dinner and a show” experience or plan an extended shopping spree before each performance. It’s something quite special really and we’re thrilled to welcome it back.”

This year’s Presenting Sponsor is Creature Comforts Hvac Inc. Owners Dale & Grant Gray have been proudly keeping Burlington comfortable since 2010.

“With the past couple of years being challenging it’s so great to see some fun events taking place in our city once again. You can actually feel the “buzz” of energy and excitement for upcoming festivals and events just like Movies by the Lake” says Grant Gray, Presenting Sponsor, adding: “Being long-time residents of Burlington it means so much to our family that we are able to present such a fun event! We love Burlington and supporting local businesses! Thank you for your referrals of family and friends Burlington! Enjoy the show!”

Movies by the Lake is presented by Creature Comforts Hvac Inc, and proudly sponsored by BENCHMARK Fitness, Bubbles & Blow Beauty Bar, Exhale Pilates, Kelly’s Bake Shoppe & The North Coal. The program runs July 12th through July 26th and August 9th through August 23rd at Spencer Smith Park at dusk.

A full list of movies, showtimes and event happenings is available at: https://burlingtondowntown.ca/mbtl/

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