Good morning! This is The Oakville Digest, your trusted guide to everything happening in the beautiful town of Oakville, Ontario.

Here is what to expect in today’s issue:

• 💼 Summer jobs in Halton, Polar Dip, and more

• 🍽️ Restaurant of the week

• 📅 Events happening in the community this week

Thanks for being part of our growing community. Reply to this email to let us know what you loved in today’s issue, and…

Let’s dive in!

News

🎓 Student Jobs in Halton Region: Kickstart Your Career!

Looking for a job or know a student eager to gain work experience? Halton Region’s summer student program is here to help! Their program is now open to applicants, offering a range of opportunities designed to build valuable skills and earn a paycheck.

This opportunity is open to students who are enrolled in full-time, post-secondary studies, returning to full-time studies in September or who are legally eligible to work as a student in Canada. Includes positions in the region’s health, finance, public works, digital information and community services departments as labourers, assistants and representatives.

Openings are available through December and January each year, with interviews typically taking place in February and March while the employment period lasts from May to August.

More info: Program Website.

❄️ Oakville's Polar Bear Dip: 40 Years of Tradition and Charity

This New Year’s Day, Oakville celebrated the 40th Annual Polar Bear Dip at Coronation Park, where thousands gathered to take an icy plunge into Lake Ontario’s near-freezing 3°C waters. The event, a long-standing local tradition, raised over $100,000 to support clean water initiatives in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo through World Vision Canada.

The Polar Bear Dip began in 1986 as a dare between brothers Todd and Trent Courage, encouraged by their mother, Gaye, to shake off New Year’s Eve fatigue. Since then, it has grown into a community favorite, combining family tradition with meaningful global impact.

“It’s something my family and I have grown up doing,” said Jenna Courage, Todd’s daughter. “It represents community, family, and everyone coming together.”

Now in its 40th year, the Polar Bear Dip remains a symbol of Oakville’s generosity and resilience, showing how one local tradition can make waves far beyond its shores.

Community Spotlight

🍴 Oakville Pub Raises $15,000 for Local Families in Need

The Original 6th Line Pub/Restaurant hosted its second annual fundraiser for the Fare Share Food Bank last month, raising an impressive $15,630 in just one evening to support local families in need.

The event, held on December 7, built on last year’s success, surpassing the $12,290 raised in 2023. This year’s theme, “Help Feed Families in Need,” drew strong support from the Oakville community, showing once again the generosity of local residents and businesses.

The funds raised will provide essential support to the Fare Share Food Bank, which plays a vital role in helping families across Oakville facing food insecurity.

This annual event highlights how Oakville residents continue to come together to make a positive impact in the community.

More info: Oakville News.

🍽️ Restaurant of the Week: Plank Restobar

If you’re looking for a cozy spot with great vibes and even better food, Plank Restobar in Bronte is a must-visit! This charming eatery, nestled by the waterfront, combines rustic decor with a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Why We Love The Plank

• Small Plates, Big Flavours: The Plank is known for its delicious shareable dishes, offering a creative twist on classics. Favourites include their flatbreads, sliders, and fresh seafood options.

• Local Brews & Craft Cocktails: Pair your meal with a selection from their carefully curated beer list or a unique cocktail crafted in-house.

• Warm Ambiance: Whether you’re on a casual date night or catching up with friends, the cozy and intimate setting feels like home.

A Community Favourite

Special thanks to Lisa for recommending this gem! If you’re in the area, swing by The Plank and experience their delicious offerings for yourself. Don’t forget to try the chef’s specials—you won’t be disappointed!

Link: Plank Website.

Weather

Monday, January 6
🌫️ Low clouds; breezy and colder.
High: -6°C | Low: -9°C

Tuesday, January 7
🌤️ Breezy in the morning; intervals of clouds and sunshine.
High: -4°C | Low: -10°C

Wednesday, January 8
☁️ Mostly cloudy.
High: -7°C | Low: -10°C

Events

• Halton’s Small Business Centre Learning Session | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, January 7 (more info)

  • Description: This free session provides an overview of all the rules and regulations that you need to know if you are interested in starting a business in Halton. Registration is required.

• Mayor and Council’s New Year’s Levee | 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, January 7 (more info)

  • Location: Oakville Town Hall, 1225 Trafalgar Rd, Oakville

  • Description: Kick off 2024 at the annual Mayor and Council's Levee! Join Mayor Rob Burton and Town Council for a casual and friendly community celebration. Connect with neighbours, share ideas with local leaders, and enjoy light refreshments. Everyone is welcome—bring your family, friends, or come on your own to embrace the spirit of unity and community that defines Oakville.

• Leadtribes Oakville: Network your Business | 12:30 PM, January 8 (more info)

  • Location: Milestones, 3051 Vega Blvd , Mississauga (Border of Oakville)

  • Description: Join us for a vibrant networking lunch hosted by LeadTribes! Connect with trusted entrepreneurs, share your business, gain fresh insights, and find inspiration in a supportive and welcoming atmosphere

• Flow + Glow Yoga Classes | 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM, January 6 (more info)

  • Location: 151 Lakeshore Rd W, Mississauga

  • Description: No experience needed, 7 week yoga class. ”A fun and energizing fusion of yoga to warm up your body and soul!”

• Cornhole and Mingle, for Singles | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, January 7 (more info)

  • Location: Symposium Cafe, 611 Holly Ave, Milton

  • Description: An event designed to make friends and have fun, whether you’re a pro or a beginner!

• Pottery Wheel Class, 4 Weeks | 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, January 6 (more info)

  • Location: 3495 Rebecca St. Unit 208, Oakville

  • Description: The introductory class allows students to learn how to throw on a potter's wheel and hand build (i.e. add a handle if you made a mug, a lid if you made a jar). You'll make a cup, vase or bowl on the wheel and then add accents to your piece.

Thank You!

Thank you for reading The Oakville Digest! We hope you found this edition helpful and insightful. We’d love to hear your feedback or any event suggestions you’d like us to feature in future issues. Don’t forget to share with friends and family, and we’ll see you Wednesday!

P.S. Interested in sponsoring our newsletter? Email us at [email protected].