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Halloween Fun for All Ages: A ghostly roundup of things to do leading up to Halloween in Oakville and Burlington!

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With Halloween creeping up on us, let’s unmask some ghoulishly great ways to celebrate.


Take a ghost tour

You don’t have to wait for Halloween night to get your ghostly thrills. There are some eerie locations around Oakville and Burlington that are screaming out for you to visit – if you dare. 

Erchless Estate is rumoured to be the most haunted house in Oakville, with employees claiming to have seen ghostly figures walking the museum grounds. And if that’s not spine-tingling enough, visit Dingle Park after dark, where you might catch a glimpse of the ghost who is said to reside there. 

If you happen to be in downtown Burlington on the night of a full moon, pay a visit to the statue of the soldier at the cenotaph at City Hall. Legend has it that he descends from his pedestal to wander under the full moon’s light.

If that’s too scary for you, same ghoul, same. I’m team “playful pumpkins” over “ghostly figures” every time. 

Pumpkins After Dark in Milton is a family-friendly way to conjure up some Halloween spirit. Also, check your neighbourhood Facebook groups for “Haunted Houses” near you. Several homes in Oakville and Burlington boast Halloween activities and decor that are eerie-sistible. 


Get this party startled!

A costume swap isn’t just budget-friendly; it’s also eco-friendly. Invite friends to bring their gently used costumes, and let the trading begin. Combining elements from various costumes can result in a unique look. Think Fairy-Ogre, Manchester United-Monkey, Space-Kitten, or Flamingo-Werewolf – guaranteed to stand out in any Halloween parade.

Consider hosting an “Upstairs Downstairs Party” to make it easier for parents of young children to socialize. Parents can bob for apples upstairs while their little ones enjoy treats and games downstairs, under the watchful eye of a few teens hired by ‘mummies’ (and daddies). 

Organize a scary movie marathon (Author’s Note: At the first sign of a clown, I’m out of there faster than you can say, “It.”) Serve up terrifying treats like Halloweenies and petrified popcorn and you’ll be the ghostess with the mostess. Remind guests to BYOB (Bring Your Own Boos). 


Trick or treat yourself

Many local shops and restaurants welcome young trick-or-treaters with candy-filled bowls. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses while collecting some sweet treats.

Instead of going the usual candy bowl route, add a dash of creativity to the Halloween mix! Set up a “Witches’ Cauldron” using some dry ice for an extra eerie effect, or create a “Mummy’s Tomb” brimming with treats. And hats off to my ingenious neighbours who send treats down a PVC pipe from an upper window – we applaud your wicked engineering.

Welcome trick-or-treaters with glowing jack-o-lanterns, a Halloween music playlist on a loop, festive lights or some creepy cobwebs to set the mood. Let your imagination run wild, but within reason. I had to remind my spouse not to jump out in his vampire costume to scare unsuspecting trick-or-treaters. While it may sound amusing in theory, the bone-chilling scream from our neighbour (and her young child) haunted me for months. She gave us resting-witch face until Christmas. 


Keep celebrations inclusive and safe

Some children may have dietary restrictions, while others may have sensory sensitivities. Consider offering a mix of treats and non-food items (stickers, bubbles, fidget toys, glowsticks, slime) to accommodate all trick-or-treaters. 

If your children are old enough to venture out on their own, be sure to review safety rules and common courtesies. Remind them to take only a few treats from unsupervised bowls left out on doorsteps and to respect property – only monsters and ghouls stomp over flower beds.

There you have it, a how-to guide for a Halloween that’s frightfully fun for all ages! Whether you’re swapping costumes, exploring haunted houses, or simply enjoying the treats, have a safe and scary Halloween, everyone! 

by Lisa Thornbury

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How to Organize Your Entryway for Fall

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Along with the crisp autumn breeze and change in fall routines comes a flood of belongings into your home – backpacks, coats, muddy boots, outerwear galore! All of which ends up cluttering your entryway and can make your home feel chaotic from the moment you step over the threshold. 

Keeping your entryway clean and organized takes some planning, but a well-organized foyer can help you get out the door on time, and create a feeling of calm when you get home. 

Keep only what you need

Remove any items that don’t belong in the entryway. “If you are working with tight parameters, ensure only the seasonal essentials are living in this space,” says Megan Arthurs, Oakville-based professional home organizer and CEO of H:OM Organizing. Removing out of season items means you are only looking at what you might need. You don’t need to see your sandals and sun hats when you’re looking for your scarves and boots.  

Make use of vertical surfaces

Vertical is your friend in the foyer. Install hooks or wall-mounted racks for frequently used items such as jackets and hats. “You want to try to get as many items off the floor and on the wall,” says Arthurs. 

Add a console table

If you have space, add a console table that can serve as a mail drop zone and add a basket for miscellaneous things like dog leashes, school permission forms and flyers. If you don’t have room for a console table, floating shelves can work well for essentials such as phones, keys and wallets. 

Invest in dual-purpose furniture

The entryway isn’t a space you want to clutter with furniture, especially if you are working with a small space. Arthurs recommends items that are dual-purpose, such as a storage bench that provides seating and is also a place to store shoes. 

Shoe solutions

Shoes scattered around the entryway is not only a tripping hazard, it leads to dirt tracked around the home during the soggy months. If a traditional shoe rack isn’t providing enough storage, consider a wall mounted shoe storage unit that saves on floor space while providing plenty of storage.

Add a rug to catch debris

A rug that can trap debris from wet, muddy fall shoes will help keep the rest of your home clean. Carol Lacher, owner of Nicetys in Oakville, recommends Chilewich rugs. Made in the USA from recycled plastic, Chilewich rugs are low pile, catching debris that can be vacuumed or hosed down. “They last for years and the quality is amazing,” says Lacher. A boot tray is also great for catching excess snow, mud and water, preventing those unwelcome puddles inside your home. 

Seasonal decor 

Adding some touches of the season can help set the mood for fall; however, if your foyer has space restrictions, fall decor can just add to the clutter. Work from the outside in, adding a seasonal door wreath and a doormat. If you have an entryway table, add a few fall foliage items (branches, twigs, pinecones) without overwhelming the space.

Establish a morning routine 

An organized entryway can help simplify your routine by providing designated spaces for keys, backpacks and outerwear so you’re not frantically searching for things when trying to get out the door. Create an assembly line of necessary items so kids can simply grab their backpack, lunch bag and shoes with speed, and make sure everything you need (keys and other essentials) are also within reach. 

Be sure to tidy the hallway on a regular basis to maintain organization for the months ahead.  “The entryway becomes a household dumping zone, so this space needs extra attention on a weekly basis,” says Arthurs. 

Optimize your closet 

A functional closet adds additional square footage to your foyer. For closet solutions, check out these local businesses: 

Closet Envy
closetenvy.ca

Closets by Design
closetsbydesign.ca

California Closets
californiaclosets.ca

BY LISA EVANS

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Apples, Pumpkins, and Spice, Oh My!

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Apples and pumpkins symbolize autumn in Ontario as much as snow defines winter. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer to the area, it’s no secret that the fall season brings these fruits to the forefront, as well as the notable spices that accompany them. What would a pumpkin be without pumpkin spice or an apple pie be without cinnamon?

Combining fall fruits with homey spices is the best way to create luxurious pies for a fall afternoon or a Thanksgiving feast. Follow these tips and hacks to dazzle your family and friends with homemade goodness this year. 

Tips for perfect apple pie

While all apple varieties vary in sweetness, those that hold their shape best for baking are Northern Spy, Ontario Spartans, Idareds, Cortlands, Crispins, Golden Delicious and Empire apples. Red Delicious are best left for snacking while MacIntosh are best for apple sauce.

If time or fussiness is not your friend, keep it easy and begin with a
pre-made crust from the frozen section of your grocery store. If you’d like to try a homemade crust, note that shortening/lard creates a flakier crust, while butter gives more flavour. 

  Combine sweet and tart. The best pies combine a tart apple like Granny Smith or Braeburn with a sweet variety like Honey Crisp or Gala. Cortlands are a nice middle-ground of sweet and tart in one larger apple if you can find them. 

  Toss your cut apples with sugar and set aside. Drain and discard the juice before adding the apples to the pie to prevent a soggy crust.

  Brush the inside of the crust with egg wash before adding the apples to create a barrier and prevent the crust from absorbing the juices. 

  Layer the apples into the pie crust and fill above the crust edge. Add the crust top and pinch the edges to seal the apples in. While it may sound finicky, layering the apples will avoid gaps in the filling and provide a more even bake, not to mention each bite will be jam-packed with glorious filling! 

Pumpkin pie from scratch hacks

Before you open that can of pumpkin puree, consider going all out this year and try a pumpkin pie from scratch. That means – you guessed it – starting with a fresh, whole pumpkin. But before you head to the pumpkin patch, the type of pumpkin for a pie is much different than those for a jack-o-lantern. Pie or sugar pumpkins are smaller and often available at grocery stores in September and October. Choose one that’s firm with a rich orange colour without blemishes, soft spots or green marks. 

Cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. Place cut side down in a microwave-proof dish and add about an inch of water. Pop in the microwave for 15-18 minutes (or roast in the oven for one hour at 375 degrees F) until soft. 

 Scoop out the soft flesh and add to a food processor. Puree until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a potato masher to puree the flesh by hand. 

  The secret to a silky-smooth pumpkin pie is heavy cream and pumpkin pie spice (cinnamon, ginger, cloves and nutmeg). If you prefer a less calorie-laden recipe, substitute homo or 2% condensed milk for the cream.

  If making your pie crust from scratch, add some cinnamon to your dough for an extra punch of flavour, brush the raw dough with an egg wash and pre-bake your crust.

Of course, if you’re short on time (or patience) and still want the experience and bragging rights of serving a home-baked pie, there’s nothing wrong with taking a few shortcuts. Use a pre-made crust, reach for the can opener and serve with love. 

If all else fails or baking isn’t your thing, visit one of the region’s delightful bakeries for a homemade treasure:

Springridge Farm, Milton
springridgefarm.com

Chudleigh’s Farm, Milton
chudleighs.com

Cakes Sweets & Treats, Burlington
cakessweetstreats.com

That Pie Place, Burlington
thatpieplace.com

Cupid’s Gourmet Bakery, Oakville
cupidsgourmetbakery.ca



By Julie Achtermeier

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The Best Cookie Shops in Oakville, Burlington + Mississauga

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All things cookies appear to be a big culinary trend as we brace ourselves for shorter days, back to school and the close of yet another brief but sweet summer season.

A universally approved treat that even our topsy-turvy world can agree to enjoy, the cookie is enjoying some fame as of late. A scan of social media feeds will tell you cookies are a hot commodity across North America.

But you don’t need to travel far to savour melt-in-your-mouth morsels made with love. Spend a fall afternoon touring local bakeries for the best freshly baked cookies around – and, be sure to grab some to go!

First stop is Bronte Village’s Sweet! Bakery. Oatmeal, cranberries and pecans go into its biggest seller, a cult classic that bakery owner Ashley Armstrong says customers jokingly refer to as the “crack cookie.”  “If we stopped selling these people would be upset,” she says.

Another big hit for the Bronte bakery are its Lofthouse cookies. Often sold in grocery stores with thick pink or blue icing, these soft sugar cookies are plant-based so they’re great for vegans. Cookie sandwiches are popular, too, with a variety of versions such as the Nanaimo bar sandwich.

Our next stop offers the perfect antidote for grumbly kids who sulk at the thought of returning to classrooms. Cookies adorned with toppers saying ‘Happy first day of school!’ are available, says Erin Nocent, the owner of The Sweetest Thing, located in Kerr Village, Oakville.

But their most popular cookie is called Crispy Chewy, a chewy chocolate chip cookie with crispy cookie bits throughout. “People often buy a dozen at a time. They don’t last forever, especially if you have kids.”

While customers love their classics, The Sweetest Thing is always introducing new products, such as a Snicker Doodle cookie and its recently added Cosmic Brownie, a dense and fudgy chocolate brownie cookie topped with chocolate ganache and sprinkles. Last fall saw the debut of the Swifty, a vanilla chai latte cookie inspired by Taylor Swift.

Nocent claims cookies are a never-fail gift no matter the occasion. “People come in and put together two boxes of cookies, one for themselves and one for a friend. Maybe something good happened – they bought a house or it’s a new baby or maybe there’s a sick dog. People always like getting cookies as a gift. It’s a tangible way to show you’re thinking about someone.”

The cookie rush is pushing its way north thanks, in part, to the U.S.-based phenom known as Crumbl Cookies, a cult fave that opened in July in Mississauga at the Heartland Centre. With a weekly rotating menu of over 200 flavours and iconic pink boxes, the cookies feature frosted tops and creative decorations. It’s worth a trip to the company known for localizing its cookie flavours as they did with their Saskatoon Berry cheesecake cookie. 

Burlington’s favourite vegan bakery, Kelly’s Bake Shop, is known for its delightful cupcakes, but they also specialize in one-of-a-kind cookies. While there are plenty of decadent choices, if your sweet tooth is tempered by a health conscious bent, try the Skinny Cookie. Sweetened with bananas, coconut sugar and maple syrup, it’s their bestselling cookie.

Nadege Patisserie, in downtown Oakville, concludes our tour. In addition to classic cookies, croissants, cakes and bonbons, the bakery specializes in macarons, meringue-based sandwich cookies in pistachio, fleur de sel, cotton candy, cassis and others. These colourful confections that include a butter cream filling are popular with children, says Nadege supervisor Gigi Almsitaf.

In her experience, cookies provide comfort and kindness and that’s why they’re so universally loved. “One day I was sick and a school friend brought me cookies,” says the Syrian native. “That made me feel special. Cookies do that.”

Amazing to think that these small morsels have the power to lift spirits and wash away, if only for a moment, what ails you.

by Kelly Putter

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Pamper Yourself This Fall at a Local Spa

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As the lazy hazy days of summer give way to the hectic routines of fall, you may find yourself feeling slightly overwhelmed by the start of the new season. Between unpacking your sweaters and juggling kids’ activities – and before planning for holidays (yup, those are coming sooner than you think) – be sure to schedule time to rejuvenate your mind and body as you prepare for fall. Halton and surrounding regions are home to several spots ready to pamper, restore and recharge your batteries.

Wellness for the Body

2418 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville
wellnessforthebody.com

Serving the Bronte Village community of Oakville since 2005, the team of healthcare practitioners at Wellness for the Body aims to ensure clients achieve a healthy, stress-free and pain-free lifestyle. Services range from counselling to chiropractic care, naturopathic care, osteopathy, acupuncture and massage therapy. They are open 7 days a week.

Pearle Spa

3 Elizabeth St, Burlington
thepearlehotel.ca

If you’re looking to turn off all distractions to pamper yourself for a day (or two), look no further than the Pearle Spa. Located on the picturesque Burlington waterfront in the Pearle Hotel, this luxurious day spa is the perfect place to escape from the stresses of daily life and unwind. Amenities include a traditional Hammam steam room, plus a lounge and pool for a complete full-day experience. Choose among facials, body treatments, massage, manicures and pedicures, and consider extending the experience by booking a room at the Pearle Hotel and dining at Isabelle Restaurant & Lounge.

The Pearle Spa
The Pearle Spa

Yellow Door 

114 Thomas St, Oakville
yellowdoorstudio.com

For a revitalizing lift in your spirit and body, look no further than this modern and welcoming day self-care studio. Grab a drink at the fully licensed bar and cafe while you enjoy your treatment. Yellow Door offers manicures, pedicures, facials, jetpeel, waxing, brow and lash treatments. Here, wellness is addressed from the inside out, offering acupuncture and ayurveda massage as well as meditation, massage and reiki energy healing.

Yellow Door Studio

OM Massage & Wellness

46 King St W Suite 201, Dundas
omdundas.com

Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Dundas beside the Starbucks patio, OM Massage & Wellness is a tranquil oasis catering to all aspects of health. OM puts relaxation at the forefront of all its healthcare services. OM Massage & Wellness offers registered massage therapy, naturopathic medicine, osteopathy, acupuncture, reflexology and physiotherapy. Mental health services including social work, psychotherapy and yoga therapy ensure the whole body is taken care of at OM.

You shouldn’t have to wait until you’re burnt out to book personal care time. Wellness should always be a top priority because when you take care of yourself, you’re better able to care for others. Whether it’s a single treatment or a full day, time spent at the spa can help prepare you to meet the busy season ahead with energy and optimism.

by Lisa Evans

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Scouts of Canada: A Breath of Fresh Air For Kids of All Ages

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In 1907, Robert Baden-Powell, a Lieutenant General in the British army, held a camp for boys on an island in southern England to test the ideas he’d included in a book called Scouting for Boys. About 20 boys attended, several of whom were his son’s friends. This small event would mark the beginning of a worldwide movement, with Baden-Powell’s book eventually selling more than 100 million copies.

Since Baden-Powell formed The Boys Scouts Association in 1910, millions of children and youth, ages 5 to 26, have participated in Scouts and learned about nature, the outdoors and the importance of friendship and leadership.

When Scouts first began, young girls also expressed an interest in getting involved. In response, Baden-Powell and his sister Agnes started Girl Guides in 1910. However, in 1998, Scouts became fully co-ed, and it continues to be committed to diversity and inclusivity today.

In Canada, there are more than 50,000 youth in Scouts who participate in outdoor adventure, fun experiences and community contributions, making Scouts Canada this country’s leading co-ed youth organization.

The mission of Scouts Canada is to “help develop well-rounded youth, better prepared for success in the world.” In an age of screens, Scouts offers a breath of fresh air – motivating kids to get outside and explore the real world. Sports and outdoor adventure make up a large part of the activities. They learn first aid and emergency training, and are taught about healthy living, respect for the environment and the importance of nature. Personal development is emphasized in the organization, as Scouts are encouraged to volunteer in their community.

The groups are separated by age and include Beaver Scouts (5-7); Cub Scouts (8-10); Scouts (11-14); Venturer Scouts (15-17) and Rover Scouts (18-26).

In Beaver Scouts, kids spend the bulk of their time exploring the outdoors and building social skills through nature walks, hikes, tree planting, games and crafts. Earning personal achievement badges is encouraged.

Cub Scouts are introduced to more variety, from camping and hiking to community projects and environmental stewardship programs.

Scouts hone their outdoor adventure skills with activities like mountain biking, rock climbing and lots of camping, as well as participate in unique opportunities like national or international jamborees.

Venturer Scouts begin building the knowledge and skills for career development, as well as participate in outdoor adventures, weekend events, extended hikes, leave-no-trace camping, spiritual reflection, community service and more.

Kids of any age can apply to join Scouts Canada at any time of year. Memberships are renewable on a yearly basis. To ensure all children can access the Scouts Canada experience, the No One Left Behind program provides financial subsidies to families in need.

Visit www.scouts.ca to find a Scouts group in your area.

by Denise Davy

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Refresh Your Interior This Fall With Paint

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Need to breathe life into your home while sticking to a budget? Painting is an inexpensive way to freshen up any room. With a bit of time and effort, you can re-energize any space with a fresh coat of colour.

Hot Colour Trends

Each year, a new colour palette sets the stage for the coming season, and this year is no exception. “We are seeing dark and moody blues and greens,” says Iva from Dove+Arrow in Oakville. She adds that jewel tones are generally popular for a dramatic look and that a surprise pop of pink has emerged, inspired by the Barbie movie. Regardless of the trends, choosing a wall colour is uniquely personal and has more to do with your taste than the latest style. Are you looking for a calm ambience? Stick to neutrals. Do you want to bring an energetic mood to the room? Choose a bold new colour. If you’re on the fence, keep walls neutral and add punches of colour with a bright cushion, lamp or wall art.

What Paint Should I Buy?

When choosing a paint brand, look for one that’s washable, especially if you have children. Paint finishes with a higher sheen are easier to clean. A satin finish has a higher gloss and is excellent for a child’s room, baseboards and trim. An eggshell finish gives a slight shine to walls, while a matte finish has less sheen, and both are very wipeable. Flat finishes are harder to clean and show more wall imperfections. Bathrooms and kitchens require a paint formulated for humid environments that are mildew resistant. Whatever your preference is for brand, sheen or colour, be sure to buy the correct type of paint for the room.

Tips for a Flawless Room

Before you paint, patch any holes with a patching compound. Patch in skim coats, scraping the excess with a spreader. Once dry, use a fine-grit sanding block to gently sand the patched area. It should feel smooth with no apparent lumps or bumps.

Most latex paints today are created with primer built in, which means better overall coverage on the walls. It also means you can skip priming the entire walls first, unless you cover a very dark colour with a very light one. However, you do need to seal the patched areas. To save time, use the paint colour you have purchased and brush a thin coat over the patching with your brush. This acts as your primer coat and seals the patch before you roll the walls.

Be sure to buy a good quality angled paint brush (1.5 to two inches) and cut in the perimeter of the room to create a nice, clean edge. Once the walls are rolled, allow sufficient drying time between coats. The higher the humidity, the longer a room will take to dry, so be sure to have the air conditioning on during warm days or run fans to circulate the air.

Whether you’re painting a bedroom, basement or bathroom, choosing the right paint and prepping the walls will ensure a successful project every time.

by Julie Achtermeier

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Pickleball: The Sport for Everyone

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Familiar with terms like dink shot, double bounce and groundstroke? If so, chances are you’re a pickleballer. Despite the enthusiasm of friends urging me to play, I’m among the few remaining pickleball holdouts in my neighborhood. Lack of coordination and depth perception have kept me on the sidelines, but the allure of venting my frustrations with an oversized ping-pong paddle has me intrigued. 

What exactly is pickleball? 

A fusion of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court, divided by a low net. Two pickleball courts fit in one side of a tennis court (many tennis courts have pickleball lines to allow for both types of play). The rules of play are quite simple, which makes it accessible to beginners.

The game starts with an underhand serve, and players must wait until the ball bounces before returning it. Get this… a serve that intentionally hits the non-receiving opposing player is called a “Nasty Nelson.” That alone makes me want to rush out and buy a paddle.

“Whether you’re a serious athlete or a beginner like me, there’s a place for you in this sport. It’s very inclusive,” says Jolanda Rettinger of Oakville. 

Jolanda and her husband Dwayne have made Friday night matches with their neighbours a regular “date night” activity. “Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles which makes it super social,” she says. 

A robust match followed by a game recap over cocktails and possibly deep-fried pickles? Yes, please. 

Where to play

Both Oakville and Burlington Parks and Rec offer programs for new players. You can also join a recreational league or find a nearby court for a casual game with friends (or make new ones on the court).

Finding a court or learn-to-play location is as easy as Googling, “Pickleball near me.” There are both outdoor and indoor pickleball courts so you can play through all seasons. The Oakville and Burlington Pickleball Associations are other great places to learn more and connect
with other players in your area. Many private athletic and racquet clubs in the area have also enthusiastically adopted the sport.

Why pickleball is the trendiest game in town

Pickleball’s popularity is not surprising, given its appeal to people of all ages and skill levels. It’s a fun way to stay active, meet new people and share some laughs. The fast-paced action and strategic gameplay keep players engaged and coming back for more. And, it might be what finally gets a newbie like me to answer the Pickler’s rally cry to join the pickleball revolution.

Get started:

Just enter “pickleball” into the search bar at www.Oakville.ca or
www.Burlington.ca for a complete list of resources and opportunities.

Or you can head to  www.burlingtonpickleball.com to learn more about the resources available through the Burlington Pickleball Association.

by Lisa Thornbury

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Local Tutors in Oakville and Burlington

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The start of a new school year can be an exciting time, but also stress-inducing for students who struggle to keep up with classwork. Many students are still experiencing pandemic after-effects and have yet to catch up to their grade levels. A tutor can help ease their struggles and lift their grades, but finding the right match is important. Here’s what to consider when hiring a tutor. 

Take a long-term approach

While most parents reach out to a tutor after seeing poor test marks, Suman Joseph, Centre Director of Sylvan Learning Burlington, says a student’s struggles often stem from issues deeper than academic misunderstanding. “A child’s struggle at school may stem from lack of self-confidence and school engagement, which significantly impacts their academic performance and perseverance.”

While parents’ main goal of hiring a tutor is often to improve academic grades, Joseph says tutoring is also about changing a child’s attitude toward learning. While a tutor can help improve subject matter understanding in the short term, developing a love of learning and resilience in kids will help them to face further challenges later on in their academic journeys. 

Helen Trang, Centre Director of ICan Education for Burlington says a tutor is like a coach. “Great coaches boost a person’s confidence and inspire them to achieve higher standards,” she says.

So instead of asking your potential tutor how they will improve your child’s grades this year, ask how they will help your child’s confidence and prepare them for future academic success.

Tutoring isn’t one size fits all

Every child learns differently. A tutoring centre that customizes its strategies to the individual is more likely to experience success than a centre that blindly throws grade level work at a child. “The right tutoring centre or tutor should be able to change teaching strategies and/or the student’s program accordingly, so that the student is always learning at their comfort level and challenged at the right times,” says Joseph.

Vineet Khanna, owner and Centre Director of Mathnasium Burlington says it’s important to consider the child’s learning style. “For some students, one-on-one tutoring works better, while others require a more listening and hands-on approach,” says Khanna.

Most tutoring centres will assess the student’s learning level to create a custom program. Everyone (parents, student and tutor) should be on the same page about what the goals of the tutoring sessions are.

Time commitment

Helen Trang says the length of time a student sees a tutor will depend on the objectives. “If the objective is to foster a love for learning and to keep the child challenged, the child could continue every school year. If the child needs remedial support, it depends on where the child’s skills are today versus their goal,” says Trang.

The amount of time a child will spend with a tutor also depends on the level the child is currently at and what their goals are. Khanna advises parents not to impose a timeline or tell a child they have “x” number of sessions. “It’s important to not put pressure on the child to improve in a certain amount of time. Everybody learns differently and at their own pace.”

Budgeting for tutoring

Typically tutoring ranges from $50 to $65 per hour. How much to budget will depend on how much help a child needs. Joseph advises not to hold off to “save for tutoring” at a later date. “While tutoring may seem expensive at the start, it’s important for the child to get the right help at the right time,” says Joseph. Many tutoring centres have payment plans to help parents with budgeting.

by Lisa Evans

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Kerr Village Welcomes You This Fall

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Kerr Village may be Oakville’s best kept secret! This charming, yet eclectic, slice of Oakville is unlike any other part of town. Its one-of-a-kind character blends old, new, trendy and traditional to create a welcoming vibe for everyone.

The bustling and revitalized Kerr Street has become a favourite destination for residents and out-of-town visitors to stroll, shop local, grab a java to-go or savour a leisurely meal at a popular restaurant. A truly diverse community, its local businesses represent 39 different cultures, offering a selection of shops and restaurants to suit a wide variety of tastes and backgrounds.

Enjoy the best of fall in Kerr Village

As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, it’s an ideal time to enjoy a day or evening outside. And, Kerr Village is a perfect setting. Here, you can take in the urban street vibe, then head for a walk in nature. After all, Kerr Street is only a stone’s throw from Lake Ontario. After shopping and grabbing a bite, you can continue south, by foot, to Tannery Park where wooded trails and a boardwalk along Lake Ontario await. If you’re up for a longer stroll, continue east across the bridge on Lakeshore Road to downtown Oakville or, alternatively, turn west for a scenic walk toward Coronation Park. For an activity with less exertion (or if the weather isn’t quite so cooperative), consider a movie at the independently owned theatre, Film.ca, located a short distance from Kerr Street.

visitoakville.com

Celebrate the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids in September

Families with young children won’t want to miss the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids on Sunday, September 10 in Westwood Park (at the corner of Kerr Street and Bond Street) from noon until 6 p.m. Admission is free!

Bring the whole family to this outdoor celebration packed with live kid-friendly music, exciting hands-on activities and mouth-watering food. The entertainment line-up includes two on-stage performances of the Wiggles characters, Dorothy the dinosaur and Wags the dog at 1:45 and 3:30 p.m.

For a smashing good time, catch a performance of CRASH Rhythm at 12:30 p.m. This alternative and engaging approach to music education and exploration uses bucket drumming to tie together teamwork, creativity and fun while learning about music, composition, rhythm and drumming.

At 2:30 p.m., kids can explore more musical beats with Mystic Drumz. Its interactive performance showcases eclectic percussion instruments sourced from around the globe, linking geography to sounds, rhythms to science and laughter to learning. The closing performance (4:30 to 6 p.m.) is by teen band, Leave Those Kids Alone. The Fan Vote Winner of CBC Music Searchlight 2022 features five talented teenagers from Windsor and Detroit playing original songs, along with classic rock favourites.

Plenty of munchies and refreshments will be on offer throughout the day with food vendors that include The Mermaid, Boffo’s, Sandwich Society, Zesty Pita and La Dolce Vita. Look out for ballooning clowns, a superhero and a roaming social media photo booth.

Admission to the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids is FREE! The schedule is subject to change, so be sure to check before heading out.

New Shops in Kerr Village

Kerr Village makes supporting local easy, thanks to its incredible selection of businesses run by passionate founders. This fall, be sure to visit some of the newer additions!

Wared Restaurant

Wared Restaurant

438 Kerr Street
wared.ca

This Middle Eastern restaurant serves authentic flavours from the rich culinary traditions of the region. Its mission is to provide a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Middle Eastern culture using fresh ingredients, skilled craftsmanship and impeccable service.

Mary’ Muffins

Mary’s Muffins

326 Kerr Street
marysmuffins.com

Enjoy delicious freshly baked muffins, including vegan, gluten-free and keto! Founder Mary’s mission is to nourish your family with healthy, handcrafted muffins. Order fresh or flash frozen to save for later. They offer local delivery and pickup, as well as catering.

Country Road of Canada

119 Kerr Street
country-road-of-canada-inc.business.site

Visit this clothing boutique for a selection of luxury European brands from England, Ireland, France and Scotland for men and women, representing Saint James, France; Irelands Eye, Dublin; Armorlux knit, France; Lochcarron kilts and tartans, Scotland, and more.

Wet Coffee

Wet Coffee

111 Kerr Street
wetcoffeecommunity.com

Enjoy coffee and community with an artfully crafted beverage and delicious bite. Sit in the interior that’s modern, yet comfy, with a retro vibe, or sip your java on the patio. Coffee travelers for larger groups are also available to order.

Anna Cakes

46 Lakeshore Road West
cakebyanna.ca

Choose from a variety of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, pastries, and more! There are gluten-free options, too. Cakes and baked goods can be made to order, but only a limited number of orders are taken per week. Breakfast is also available.

Top Tier

Top Tier Company

143 Kerr Street
toptiercompany.ca

This team of skilled and passionate barbers is dedicated to creating the haircut that stands out, tailored to your unique style and preferences in a hip barbershop with a friendly atmosphere.

My Back Shed  

131 Kerr Street
mybackshed.com

This is the destination for enthusiasts of French Country, antiques, jewelry, hand painted furniture and shabby chic home decor. Step into the “as-is” room for a unique flea market experience. Custom furniture painting and upholstery also available.

by Danielle Leonard

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