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Backyard Shade
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Made in the Shade – Keeping Your Backyard Cool on Hot Sunny Days

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It may be hard to believe, but summer is finally on its way, bringing with it plenty of sunshine and heat — at least we hope! And while that weather forecast pretty much describes the perfect kind of summer season we all crave during the cold, endless winter months, no one, not even the most die-hard among us, wants to spend all day sizzling in the blazing summer sunshine.

Fortunately, there are many different ways to seek shelter, with a variety of styles sure to fit every budget and personal taste. Whether your backyard is big or small, and no matter your personal style, there are lots of different ways to find respite from the sun — and the rain — while still making the most of those all-too-fleeting summer months.

The first option of course is a stand-alone shade umbrella. “There is a huge selection of styles and sizes to choose from, and umbrellas are super cost-effective,” says Preston Lacroix, outdoor sales consultant at Oakville Home Leisure. “As for popular colours, we’re looking at lots of neutrals and beiges this year, with red as a popular accent.”

Backyard Shade

Pergolas — open-air structures, usually with plants growing beside or over them — are becoming increasingly common as they provide an added element of peacefulness and privacy to any backyard space. They can either be integrated into a deck or placed in a quiet area of the backyard. Pergolas have the bonus of adding natural vegetation and colour to your garden, and there are plenty of easy-to-assemble kits available.

Gazebos are another great option for year-round backyard enjoyment. Whether you choose an open gazebo or a hot tub enclosure, both are sure to provide endless family entertainment. Gazebos offer abundant potential for customization, making them a perfect fit for both a home backyard or a cottage setting.

Then there are full structures such as cabanas and pool houses, which can bring a whole new level of luxury to your landscape. A pool house can be customized into an elaborate and multi-functional outdoor room, and offers much more than storage — it can be equipped with a lounge area, bar equipment and ample seating, as well as a place to safely house your entertainment centre. A cabana brings all the luxuries of indoors outside, including furniture, pillows and carpets, fridge and bar, and even a washroom, so you can make your open-air experience as comfortable as possible.

Backyard Shade

But maybe a simpler retractable awning is more your style. There are a wide range of styles of retractable awnings, as well as a complete line of retractable window awnings and fixed canopies. Not just for heat, though — awnings are practical even in cooler temperatures, offering protection from wind, dust, rain, snow, and noise. Throughout the fall and winter months, there are numerous advantages to be found with an outdoor awning.

With all of these options, how do you decide which one is best for you? Are you seeking only summer protection? Or something that provides relief year-round? A fully enclosed structure for sun and snow? Are you more interested in something aesthetically pleasing, or do you just want relief from the elements? These are all practical concerns to take into consideration as you move forward with any type of renovation, major or minor.

The good news? Most of these structures can be erected anywhere on your property to provide a sheltered area for anyone looking to take full advantage of the outdoors. No matter which option you choose, you will be able to keep your yard attractive, fun and fit for entertaining, or just the perfect place to enjoy a little time alone no matter the weather.

by Allison Dempsey

Local Links

Oakville Home Leisure, Oakville
oakvillehomeleisure.com

Backyard Retreat, Oakville
backyardretreat.ca

Hauser, Burlington
hauserstores.com

Sun Country Leisure, Burlington
suncountryleisure.com

Backyard Shade

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Local Cycling Clubs
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I Want to Ride My Bicycle: Pedal For Your Life

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There are so many well-documented benefits to bicycling, it really is a mystery why we’re not all out there right now pedaling to our heart’s content — and for our health. Aside from increased cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and flexibility, cycling also leads to improved joint mobility and decreased stress levels. It’s affordable, easy and most of all, fun. Plus, there are plenty of local organizations available to help you get going, whether you’re looking for a social network for day trips and fun outings, longer rides or even more serious competitions. In other words, ready, set, PEDAL.

Whether you’re based in Oakville, Burlington, Milton or the outskirts, there are many different clubs and organizations that offer different events, including casual weekly rides, competitions and even incredible charity events that give back to the community and those in need.

The Oakville Cycling Club is a non-competitive, recreational club that offers a friendly environment for recreational road riding, training, touring and cyclocross. An Ontario Cycling Association (OCA) member Club, it offers a wide selection of rides throughout the western GTA, including Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Halton Hills and beyond.

The OCA offers various levels of involvement. As a rider you can stay independent and participate in the many regional and weekly events that are hosted throughout the year. BMX specific riders can join a local track and participate in weekly events.

Local Cycling Clubs

The Halton Outdoor Club understands that riding with others is both more enjoyable and safer than riding alone. The Club provides two cycling programs: road cycling and trail cycling. Road cyclists travel on secondary scenic roads while trail cyclists look for trails dedicated to non-vehicular traffic. Most road rides are concentrated in the Halton region while most of the trail rides take place a little farther away, such as in Hamilton, Niagara or Brantford. “We have two cycling groups doing different outings, either with weekend rides or entire weekend excursions,” says club manager Bonnie Quinn. “We’ve been to Holland and the Montreal area, among other places.”

Helmets are mandatory on all rides, traffic regulations are followed and they ride single file, rather than in a tight pack. Cyclists are encouraged to know how to fix a flat tire and to bring the equipment required in making simple repairs.

The Share the Road Cycling Coalition is a provincial cycling advocacy organization dedicated to building a bicycle-friendly Ontario. They work in partnership with municipal, provincial and federal governments, the business community, road safety organizations and other non-profits to enhance access for bicyclists on roads and trails, improve safety for all bicyclists, and educate citizens on the value and importance of safe bicycling for healthy lifestyles and healthy communities. Share the Road began in memory of OPP Sergeant Greg Stobbart, the husband of founder Eleanor McMahon, who was killed in a cycling tragedy in June 2006.

Share the Road works to engineer legislative change in Ontario, unite cycling organizations from across the province and work with and on behalf of municipalities to enhance their ability to make their communities more bicycle-friendly.

So, if you’re looking for an awesome, life-affirming exercise that provides more health benefits than you imagine, plus social interaction and a wonderful way to give back to those in need, cycling opportunities in our area are plentiful and provide you with all that and so much more.

“When the spirits are low, when the day appears dark, when work becomes monotonous, when hope hardly seems worth having, just mount a bicycle and go out for a spin down the road, without thought on anything but the ride you are taking.”  ~ Arthur Conan Doyle

Upcoming Events

May 20

Women’s Ride Day
ontariocycling.org

June 10

Tour de Grand
Where: Duncan McIntosh Arena, Churchill Park
200 Christopher Drive, Cambridge
cambridgetourdegrand.com

June 24

Wheels Benefitting
the Darling Home for Kids
Where: Mattamy National Cycling Centre, 2015 Pan Am Blvd., Milton
ridewithwheels.ca

June 24

Tour de Guelph
Where: University of Guelph W.F. Mitchell Athletics Centre
aimee@puthon.com

July 15

Tour de Norfolk
Where: Norfolk County, located in Southern Ontario on the north shore of Lake Erie.
letourdenorfolk.com

 

by Allison Dempsey

Local Cycling Clubs

 

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Ontario Resorts
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Fast Resort – Summer Stays in Ontario

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The ideal summer itinerary includes at least one getaway. A road trip to a lodge or resort in Ontario will give you the full experience of what the province has to offer, whether it’s a retreat with your spouse, a girls’ spa getaway or a guys’ golf weekend. The following accommodations are highly rated and some even offer all-inclusive stays. No plane ticket required.

Ontario Resorts

Shamrock Lodge      

Where: Lake Rosseau, Muskoka   |   shamrocklodge.com
Affectionately referred to by regulars as “The Shammy”, it’s a quaint all-inclusive family-owned lodge where everyone seems to know one another since families return here year after year. There are 24 units, some with multiple bedrooms and most provide that stunning lake view. All day programs are offered for kids ages four and up and little kids (birth to age three) can attend morning programs. Watersports include tubing, waterskiing, boat tours, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. If you’d rather remain on land with a book or a beverage, the lake makes for a fantastic backdrop.  

Ontario Resorts

Severn Lodge

Where: Port Severn   |   severnlodge.com
There’s lots of vintage vacation charm to be had here: this family-owned property has been welcoming guests since the 1800s. There are plenty of prime pine tree and lake views to enjoy as the kids swim to their heart’s content. Other watersports are available too, including canoes, kayaks and paddleboats, waterskiing, tubing and wakeboarding. Save time for some horseback riding, or enroll the kids in supervised programs available for ages two and older. Take advantage of the evening babysitting services (which cost extra) and enjoy a romantic dinner for two. The convenient all-inclusive package options can wrap up the experience nicely. For a more traditional DIY experience, cottages are also available.

Ontario Resorts

JW Marriott
The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa

Where: Lake Rosseau, Muskoka   |   therosseau.com
For a more modern Muskoka experience, this towering resort overlooks Lake Rosseau and offers an impressive itinerary for any vacationer. Bike rentals, canoes, paddle boats, kayaks and scavenger hunts are included, and the kids will never say they’re bored if they’re too busy zip lining, zorbing, or building a birdhouse or a kite. There are several seasonal pools and hot tubs to enjoy, plus a small wading pool for little kids. The indoor-outdoor pool in the hotel is open year round. Burn off any extra energy on a guided Night Nature Walk or gather for the nightly family movie experience before bed. Every room has a kitchenette if you’d like to stock up on a few of your own groceries and make your own meals.

Ontario Resorts

Fern Resort

Where: Lake Couchiching, Orillia   |   fernresort.com
People have been flocking to Fern Resort since the late 1800s and continue to enjoy the all-inclusive experience that’s just a short drive north. Everyone’s made to feel comfortable here whether they’re relaxing on the beach, practicing archery, swimming, waterskiing, playing tennis, golf or shuffleboard. Programs are tailored for all ages. Three meals are served daily in the Heritage Dining Room, or enjoy a barbecue lunch, lakeside afternoon cocktail or late evening snack. Bonus: the Kids Club includes dinner hour babysitting.

Ontario Resorts

Harbour House Hotel

Where: Niagara-on-the-Lake   |   niagarasfinest.com/harbour
Not to be outdone by the northern locations, the Harbour House Hotel is a beautiful waterfront property in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake that offers rest and relaxation, fantastic waterfront birdwatching, and a golf course nearby (which happens to have a 180-degree view of Lake Ontario). Other recreational opportunities include walking tours, or sailing and fishing charters. Shops and boutiques await your attention in the downtown core or take in a performance at the Shaw Festival Theatre. For a relaxing afternoon, guests are welcomed on the veranda for a cheese plate and a glass of local wine.

by Becky Dumais

 

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Fresh for Spring – Seasonal Food & Wine Pairings

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In celebration of nature’s bounty – and the wonderful selection of Ontario wines – we’ve curated three recipes you’ll want to cook up this spring. Each recipe uses fresh ingredients that are in season at this time of year, and combines them with a selection of Niagara wines.

Recipes are courtesy of The Ontario Table, written by Lynn Ogryzlo – a food, wine and travel writer and international award winning author. Wine pairings are provided by Trent Mayers of Wine Journeys, Barrie.

And let’s not forget Cinco de Mayo! Check out Lynn’s fabulous fresh Rainbow Trout Tacos below, as well as the tasty Sopes De Chorizo Con Papa recipe here (courtesy of Nostalgia Latin Market), and the Hot & Smoky Mezcal Margaritas recipe here

Asparagus Leek Soup

Asparagus Leek Soup

INGREDIENTS

•  2 tablespoons (30ml) country fresh butter
•  1 leek, white part only, washed and chopped
•  1 bunch fresh asparagus, washed and chopped
•  2 cups (500ml) chicken broth
•  1 garlic clove
•  1/3 cup (80ml) milk or whipping cream
•  Ontario salt

METHOD

In a large soup pot, heat the butter over medium heat until foam subsides. Add the leek and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring. Add the asparagus and cook for another 1 minute. Add the chicken broth and garlic to the pot, then bring to a boil. Lower heat, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until the asparagus is tender. Remove from heat and allow to cool at room temperature. Puree the soup in a blender until smooth and return to the pot. Stir in the milk or cream and season well. Serve warm or cold. Serves 4 to 6. 

Spring WinesChateau des Charmes Sauvignon Blanc 2017

$14.95 (LCBO)  |  ★★★★  

Look for delicate lemon and gooseberry, followed by cut grass notes paired with nice acidity.  The grassiness will stand up to the green notes in the asparagus and the acidity will cut through the rich dairy in the soup.

Spring WinesFlat Rock Cellars Unplugged Chardonnay 2016

$18.15 (Winery)  |  ★★★★  

It has green apple, yellow plum, and a little creamy richness that suggests some ageing on the lees.
The soup and this wine’s food friendly acidity and richness will work well together

Trout Tacos

Rainbow Trout Tacos

INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup Ontario beer
• 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons sour cream
• Ontario vegetable oil for frying
• 8 flour tortillas
• 2 Ontario rainbow trout fillets
• ¼ small white cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• Niagara verjus
• Fresh garden coriander

METHOD

Sift the flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Gradually whisk in beer to make a smooth batter. Cover and set aside for 30 minutes. Mix the mayo and sour cream and set aside.

Preheat oven to 300F (150C). Wrap the tortillas in foil and warm through in the oven.

Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Remove the skin from the fillets by running a sharp knife along the bottom of the fillet in between the skin and the flesh. Season the fillets and cut each into 1-inch wide strips. Using tongs, dunk a few pieces in the batter. One at a time, drop 4 pieces into the hot oil. Deep fry for 3 minutes until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Add 4 more pieces to the oil, and repeat until all pieces of fish are fried.

To assemble, spread some mayo mixture down the centre of a warmed tortilla and scatter over a little cabbage. Place the rainbow trout pieces down the centre and spoon over some diced tomatoes. Drizzle with a little verjus. Top with coriander, roll up and serve. Repeat for each of the tacos.

Fishing season for rainbow trout in Ontario starts on the last Saturday in April.  May is prime season for catching your own tasty trout!

Spring WinesHidden Bench Estate Pinot Noir 2014

$31.95 (Vintages + Winery)  |  ★★★★ 

This red showed integrated oak, dark cherries, cranberries, spice, and pleasant earthiness.  Pinot makes a nice match with rich fish like trout and its nature will play well with the taco spice, as well as stand up to the beer in the recipe.  If you can’t find the 2014, look for the 2015.

Spring Wines13th Street Cuvée Rosé Brut NV

$27.95 (Vintages)  |  ★★★★ ½

Medium bodied, it has hints of strawberries, charming minerality and acidity, fine mousse, and is made using the traditional method (méthode hampenoise). The crispness of this sparkler will pair well with the fatty fried trout, yogurt, and sour cream.

Spring WinesHenry of Pelham Cabernet Icewine 2015

$39.95 (Vintages)  |  ★★★★ ½

Deliciously juicy, this icewine is a show stopper. It oozes strawberry, rhubarb, hints of spice, and a rich sweetness, yet remains balanced. The flavours in this wine will mesh perfectly with the strawberries in this dessert.

Spring WinesCave Spring Cellars Indian Summer Riesling 2016

$24.95 (Vintages + Winery)  |  ★★★★ ½

A sweet late harvest wine that delivers limes, lemons, apricots, and peaches, with a honeyed sweetness and lovely acidity.  The fruit profile here will complement the berries nicely.  Please note that the LCBO Vintages stocks the 2013 and 2014 vintage of this wine.

Ratings are out of a possible 5 stars.

If you have any questions or ideas regarding the wine pairings, please contact Trent at itrent.mayers@gmail.com. Or you can check his Facebook page @itrentmayers for details. 

by Lynn Ogryzlo & Trent Mayers

Spring Wines

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Spring in #BurlON!

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This spring in Burlington, it’s a great time to enjoy everything the city has t ooffer: the sweetness of Mother Nature launches spring with the Maple Syrup Festival at Bronte Creek Provincial Park and Mountsberg Conservation Area; bask in the blooms at the Royal Botanical Gardens; plus spring races, events and festivals, hiking and boating.

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Haltech
In Articles

Local Tech Based Businesses – The Sky’s The Limit

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They were a company with sky-high dreams looking for ways to grow. In a short time, The Sky Guys, an Oakville-based drone technology company, had become leaders in aerial photography and video services by using state-of-the-art drone technology. Their clients included everyone from real estate companies who hired them to capture property photos to oil and gas firms who hired their UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) to acquire data and imagery from the air.

Haltech

Last fall, The Sky Guys turned to Haltech for advice on how to grow their business. The Haltech Regional Innovation Centre, known better as Haltech, is a non-profit organization in Burlington funded by the Ontario government to help tech-based start-ups. Their mission is to support businesses by providing connections, potential clients, and new ideas and ways to launch products. Kevin Ming, interim director of operations, said they offer three basic services: advice from successful entrepreneurs who help them develop their business, marketing advice, and services to connect companies to resources and potential customers. “When people think of tech start ups, they tend to think of Toronto and they don’t realize there is a lot of activity in Halton,” says Ming. “The value in providing what we do here is that it will enable and foster growth within the innovation culture here.”

Since starting in 2012, Haltech has worked with close to 700 tech-based companies, including medical technology, apps and software. Ming adds that the group went through a transformation and rebranding in 2015 and last year alone helped some 130 companies. The majority of their clients – around 70 per cent – are from within Halton and the other 30 per cent come from areas around Toronto and Hamilton. Surprisingly, there’s no charge for their work, which includes having access to a full team of advisors, including Ming, and entrepreneurs who have been successful and want to give back to the community. They have a core team of four and, combined with their advisor base, there are 15.

When The Sky Guys approached Haltech last year, they were already well established and were using drones to do inspections of flare stacks, pipelines, cell towers and unmanned inspections of oil and gas sites. They also create full 3D models of land and infrastructure for surveying.

Haltech

Ming says even though The Sky Guys were already a successful business, Haltech was still able to help and provided advisory support in the form of connections with investors, industry collaborators, government funding agencies and national innovation awards. “A lot of the work we did helping them was connecting them with potential clients and customers from a lot bigger companies,” says Ming. A few months ago, because of the connections from Haltech, The Sky Guys secured a contract with the Ministry of Transportation to develop an artificial intelligence-enabled drones solution to monitor the HOV lanes on Ontario’s 400-series highways.

The Emerson Suite, another Oakville-based startup, reached out to Haltech last spring to help boost sales. The company’s mission is to help leaders or managers excel by providing them with the tools they need. They use a web-based mobile app, which shows managers how to establish and achieve objectives. After working with a Haltech Entrepreneur-In-Residence, they made changes to their business model and their customer focus.

In March, Haltech was written up in Forbes and was referred to as the “secret sauce” behind Ontario’s innovation growth. Haltech also offers learning workshops and free community events at their office at 5500 North Service Road in Burlington.

by Denise Davy

Look Local

Haltech, Burlington
haltech.ca

The Sky Guys, Oakville
theskyguys.ca

The Emerson Suite, Oakville
emersonsuite.com

 

Haltech

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Shop Local – Spring Fashion Finds

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Joelle's

Seek Shelter

This is not a drill – sport chic joggers are every busy woman’s wardrobe essential. Made by Sanctuary, these White Camo Peace Brigade Joggers are made from soft and comfortable French Terry material. Check out Joelle’s Sanctuary store within the store to find these and other cool must-have pieces this season.
Joelle’s, Burlington
joelles.com

 

Island View

Colourful Carry-on

This Sunbathers Foldable Beach Tote could easily function as a weekend carryall or springtime work tote. Printed canvas, quickly folds up and snaps closed.
 Island View A Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store, Oakville
@lillypulizteroakville

 

My Girfriend's Closet

Kiss Me Kate

Consignment shopping is fun and rewarding. You could be the proud scorer of one Kate Spade dress and handbag, like these, and be ready for any springtime outing.
My Girlfriend’s Closet, Bronte
mygirlfriendsclosetburlington.ca

 

Jupe

Boldly Go

Make a statement the next time you step out on the town in a boldly patterned dress by Dolcezza, with prints inspired by famous works of art.
Jupe, Waterdown
shopjupe.com

 

Burrows Clothiers

Blaze of Glory

A breath of fresh air from Canali’s Spring Summer 2018 collection. Pieces like this blazer are designed for the contemporary traveler, who knows that whether it’s for business or pleasure he’s going to look good.
Burrows Clothiers, Oakville
burrowsclothiers.com

 

Bush's Menswear

Tie Time

A bright, colourful bowtie instantly imparts spring. It’s like a mini burst of freshness – and less likely to get dipped in your dinner! Find these and other styles at Bush’s in Downtown Burlington
Bush’s Mens Wear, Burlington
bushs.ca

 

My Top Drawer

Nice and Neutral

Neutral, lightweight and perfect under a plain white T-shirt. The lightweight Prima Donna Madison bra offers full support and is specially designed to fit and flatter a full bust. Visit My Top Drawer for a professional fitting, something they specialize in.
My Top Drawer, Burlington
mytopdrawer.com

 

Zahara's

Luscious Linen

Easy going style for work and for the weekend, designed by Bryn Walker, this Asymmetrical Noa Tunic features a cowl neck and made of 100% linen. Colour depicted is Joy.
Zahara’s Boutique, Oakville
zaharasboutique.com

 

Peak Performance

Flower Flow

Go with the flow and be comfortable in this Nimatha skirt. Features a bright floral print combined with raw edges and sheer fabric to create a perfect balance of feminine cool. Dress up for date night or down for a quick trip to the market.
Peak Performance, Oakville
peak-oakville.ca

 

Good On Ya

Jeff’s Guy Shop is now carrying Good Man Brand. Pieces like this sport coat are made with a philosophy just like Jeff’s. Created by NFL quarterback Russell Wilson, Good Man Brand aims to bring out the best in men with pieces designed for comfort and motion.
Jeff’s Guy Shop, Burlington
jeffsguyshop.com

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Summer Camps
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Summer Camps

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Ah, summer camp: a place to play, learn, bunk with friends new and old and connect with the environment. S’mores, campfires and singsongs too, please!

Choosing the best one is an important decision. Whether it’s a day-to-day or sleep away camp you’ll want your child to be enriched, learn valuable skills and create wonderful memories. Organizations like the Ontario Camp Association (OCA) and Our Kids are extremely helpful to search for camp options. A certified OCA camp will bear the logo on its website.

Overnight It

Options for sleep away camps are almost limitless – it really depends on the type of activities you want your child to participate in – and whether you want to stick within the province or go beyond Ontario’s border. Does your child like horses, dance, outdoor pursuits, sports, yoga, robotics, music, public speaking or art? Are you looking for something more faith-based? Co-ed? More than likely there’s a place that matches your child’s interests. Here are just a few fun and enriching examples:

Summer Camps

Centauri Arts Camp

Where: Wellandport
This summer home-away-from-home welcomes youth from eight to 18. Aptly named, there are over 40 programs revolving around acting, stage combat, dance, fine art, creative writing, music, TV production and more – even a cultural tour trip to Scotland.
centauriartscamp.com

The Wylde Swan

Where: International
Here’s a world-class learning experience for adventurous boys and girls aged 14 to 25 – summer onboard the Wylde Swan. This year the camp will be taking part in the Tall Ship Races 2018 in Scandinavia. There’s a strong focus on hands-on teamwork and decision-making. Students learn basic seamanship and enjoy extracurricular activities. Various organized excursions are also designed to enhance a uniquely cultural experience.
wyldeswan.com

Muskoka Woods

Where: Muskoka
“Once discovered, never forgotten” is Muskoka’s tagline. Kids have been enjoying this camp since 1979 and there are over 50 types of activities for kids ages seven to 17. There are over 1,100 acres and 2,800 feet of shoreline on Lake Rousseau with world-class facilities and sports complexes. Almost like being at the cottage, campers can customize their schedule to fill a six-hour day with everything from adrenaline boosting pursuits to art. Staff to guest ratio is 1:2.
muskokawoods.com

Summer Camps

Day Dreamers

Day camps provide a fun environment for kids, and are especially helpful if both parents still need to work their usual nine to five routine. The YMCA, Town of Oakville and City of Burlington all offer day camps, and there are so many options, including Lego, art or Stem, so here are just a few to choose from:

Conservation Halton: Ways of the Woods

Where: Milton
A summer of biking, rock climbing, caving, archery, and boating, among many other activities; a sample of “all the hallmarks of a Canadian childhood.” Ages four to 15. WOW offers free supervised busing at select stops in Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Georgetown, Acton, and Mississauga.
conservationhalton.ca/wow

Appleby Collage

Where: Oakville
Campus turns to camp during the summer. Camps are organized into four major programs and are offered in full and half days: Early Discovery (ages 4 – 7), and older campers (7-17) can choose Sports & Adventure, Arts & Media, Science & Success and a new Leadership Camp.
appleby.on.ca

Kerr St. Mission Camp

Where: Oakville
Children can enjoy a safe and nurturing environment participating in lots of fun activities. KSM’s mission of being committed to helping youth learn, develop and prepare themselves for success carries through in their camps.
kerrstreet.com/ksdc

Camp Kahuna

Where: Burlington
Lots to do and so close to the city on 65 acres in the Niagara Escarpment: campfires, swimming, fishing, co-operative games, and fort building. Campers also learn about role model leadership through entertaining presentations.
kids4kids.ca

by Becky Dumais

Local Links

Our Kids
ourkids.net

The Ontario Camp Association
ontariocampsassociation.ca

 

Summer Camps

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Royal Botanical Gardens
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The Royal Botanical Gardens – One Unique Outdoor Experience After Another

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The definition of a botanical garden includes, but is not limited to: a reasonable degree of permanence; an underlying scientific basis for the collections; proper documentation of collections; monitoring of plants in the collections; labeling of plants; exchange of seed or other materials with other botanic gardens or institutions; open to the public. The Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is all those things…and more.

The RBG was founded over 80 years ago by Hamiltonian and conservationist Thomas Baker McQuesten. It’s patterned after the famous Kew Gardens in England. The number of collections has increased over time, and so has the number of programs. Today you can choose to stroll through the trails and various garden properties to see what’s in bloom, but you can also experience the RBG in many surprising ways. There are over 200 courses and workshops for families, adults and kids that focus around gardening, nature, the botanical arts and wellness.

Royal Botanical Gardens

The following are just a few ways to experience this local gem.

Master Your Garden lets adults flex their green thumbs with the help of experts. Upcoming workshops will help you get your garden into shape. Learn how to maintain a healthy lawn, discover container gardening, and grow your own fresh produce. Some workshops offer multiple sessions to further your keen for green.

Into the Wild is where adventure meets education. A peaceful paddle in paradise puts the beginner canoeist in touch with local flora and fauna and includes topical discussions with experts in the RGB nature sanctuaries. An Introduction to Canoeing workshop runs this June 9 and 10, and Paddling into Paradise experiences are happening May 12, 22 and 27. Both allow you to see Cootes Paradise by canoe and see nature and wildlife both in the water and on land.  Get Back to Nature Walks run every Sunday; a volunteer leader takes hikers on a family-friendly walk through the RBG’s vast ecosystems. These walks are free, and it’s a surefire way to get your fill of nature and fresh air.

Royal Botanical Gardens

Beekeeping is becoming a popular activity, and it seems that we humans are becoming increasingly responsible for maintaining a healthy bee population. The Urban Beekeeping series is one of the RBG’s newest experiences. In this series, veteran beekeeping instructors and honeybee breeders will guide you through topics that include an introduction to bees and the hive environment, summer hive maintenance and honey harvesting, as well as putting the bees to bed in the fall.

What is a garden if not art in flower form? There are a series of dates and workshops over the next few months around the topic of Art in the Gardens. Learn how to paint spring landscapes, or explore watercolour techniques; a course on Chinese Floral Painting teaches balance, harmony and stroke techniques while you sit in the lilac dell. One of the programs in the Health and Wellness series allows you to learn about yoga and Tai Chi outdoors – a unique and tranquil way to combine your downward dog with the daffodils. 

Royal Botanical Gardens

Kids are curious by nature and there’s no better way to satisfy their curiosity than to submerge them in an interesting environment. Junior Naturalists meet one Saturday a month until May, and Gardening Programs for Kids teach kids how to take care of their own garden plot (plus cooking, hikes, games and crafts too). 

How about enjoying breakfast with a beat? Throw a little jazz in with your toast and jam at the Jazz Brunches. This summer concert series is served over weekends with a wide menu that appeals to all ages, but make sure to reserve early. Mom would likely love the Mother’s Day brunch. Afterwards, take her on a stroll through the gardens, and perhaps even down memory lane.

by Becky Dumais

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Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington/Hamilton
rbg.ca

Royal Botanical Gardens

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