Hometown St. Thomas October 2024 Issue 64
Letter from the Editor
about people who can visualize and create so many beautiful things. We will be profiling four more artists in our November issue as well. This month, we included an article on the St. Thomas Executive Association (STEA) and their celebration of 25 years here in St. Thomas. I am a proud member of the STEA as I was for almost two years when I was with the St. Thomas Elgin Weekly News , so I was excited to get back into the group two years ago. There are a lot of networking groups around St. Thomas and the area, but to me, the STEA rises to the top. It is a group of local business owners who are dedicated not only to building their own businesses but also those in the group. Congratulations to the STEA on 25 amazing years! Home renovation can be an exciting and yet stressful time for homeowners. While updating your home is thrilling, the stress of a messy house can be a challenge. For the past three years, I have slowly been renovating my own home from top to bottom. One thing I can say for certain is that throughout the process, I have been very thankful for the talented local tradesmen and women with whom I have worked. This month, we present our Fall Home Renovation feature, which has lots of tips and tricks. Importantly, there are many local businesses here in St. Thomas and the surrounding area who can help make your home renovation dreams a reality. Geoff
Growing up, Thanksgiving was never my favourite holiday. Sure, it was a day off school, and those were always welcome, but it was just a random Monday where we ate turkey and sometimes saw my Grandparents. It was no Christmas or Halloween; those are truly kids’
holidays (Christmas is still the best). But I think as you grow older, you start to appreciate what Thanksgiving means, and you start to truly think about what you are thankful for. I, for one, am thankful to be a Canadian; I believe we live in one of the best countries in the world -- perfect, no, but pretty amazing. I am thankful for the health of my friends and family. I am also thankful to my community, whose support throughout the year has meant a great deal to me. Looking back at this year, what are you thankful for? In this month’s magazine, we are excited to profile several local artists. First, on the next page, we share the story of the Elgin Writers Guild who have collaborated to release their first book. Later in the issue, we highlight four local artists and share their stories and their work. I am not an art critic by any means; I like what I like, and I fully admit some of it goes over my head. That said, I love local artists; I think there is something extraordinary
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Page 2 Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024
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The Elgin Writers Guild Presents ‘Railway City Writes’
The Elgin Writers Guild (EWG), established on April 1, 2019 in Elgin County, has become a vibrant group of local writers. With 16 paid members, the group offers a supportive and professional environment for both emerging and seasoned writers. The guild caters to various genres, with members divided into different critique groups, including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. This autumn, the guild will mark a significant milestone with the release of Railway City Writes – Stories and Poems from the Elgin Writers Guild, a 180-page anthology featuring short stories and poems from its talented members. The Fiction Critique Group (FCG) within the EWG, which meets twice a month at the St. Thomas Public Library, has been a driving force behind this publication. These writers have been honing their craft for years, working in genres such as literary fiction, science fiction, fantasy, and crime fiction. As Tara Walker, the anthology’s editor, points out, this collection is a “watershed moment” for many of the members. “I’m most excited that those of us who have never before been published will at last have the thrill of opening a book and seeing our names and words on its pages,” she shares. Tara, who has been a part of the guild since its inception and now serves as the Fiction Critique Group moderator, played a crucial role in guiding these stories to their final form through meticulous developmental and line editing. “We’ve selected,” Tara reveals, “Ten short stories inspired by the loose motif of small towns, about half sitting firmly in the contemporary genre while the other half have speculative twists.” While some stories offer light-hearted moments, many delve into heavier themes designed to provoke thought and emotion. In addition, Railway City Writes also features poetry and songs. The inclusion of poetry reflects the guild’s commitment to being as inclusive as possible. Tara notes that not all members write fiction, and it was important for the guild to showcase the talents of its poets as well. “Those included in the anthology are short and sweet and were not constrained by the theme of small towns.” The Aylmer Express will print the anthology which will also be available online through Amazon, with a cover price of $25. The guild is planning three launch events at the St. Thomas Public Library: the first at the Arts & Letters event on October 26 at 2 pm, and the second on November 1 at 6:30 pm, both in the
downstairs Carnegie Room, where members will participate in a reading and signing. The third event is held at Lockwood Books on November 2, from 2 pm to 4 pm. The release of Railway City Writes – Stories and Poems from the Elgin Writers Guild represents the culmination of years of dedication for the writers. Tara comments, “I’ve had the privilege of watching each of these stories grow and evolve into the wonderful pieces we’re presenting to you, and I’m deeply proud of all of our authors for their hard work and perseverance.”
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Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page 3
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The Elephant Man by Peri Hayes Scott Smalley, co-directing and co-producing T he Elephant Man at the Elgin Theatre Guild (ETG), introduces, “My brothers, Adam and Chris, and I co-founded Odesa Company in 2022 when we set out to mount a production of Dracula at the Palace Theatre -- which opened in October 2023. Odesa Company signed an agreement earlier this year to become a theatre company in residence at the Palace Theatre, and that residency begins in 2025.” Having since joined ETG’s Board of Directors, Scott declares his motivation to grow local theatre. He highlights their working relationship with Cindi Armer-Almeida, Artistic Director of ETG, as The Elephant Man is ETG’s co-production with Odesa Company. With focus on outdated ideological perspectives, this narrative is presented by a quality cast of 13 individuals portraying 19 characters with a production crew involving 21 members. Exploring a range of emotions through storytelling is a process which Scott thoroughly enjoys. “We have a character in Joseph (John) Merrick ( ‘The Elephant Man’ ),” he details, “who is being judged by his outward appearance and not the content of his character. The production of this play is timely, as it shows us that what’s important is not to judge or conform to how society thinks we should appear and behave, but to be self- reflective, to nurture empathy, and to be understanding and supportive of the diverse lived experiences that characterize each of our unique journeys.” This production will demonstrate the use of grayscale as an homage to the biographical and historical 1980s black and white drama film, accompanied by the intentional incorporation of colour.
The Elephant Man is geared toward a mature audience. Bring- ing the role of John Merrick to life is Ben Kennes, who invites audience members to learn about Joseph Merrick and the struggles he endured: “While the content is difficult, I encourage people to come and experience the story firsthand.” With performances scheduled from October 3rd to 13th at Prin- cess Ave Playhouse, the following special dates entail: Friday, Octo- ber 4th being Opening Night
and Sunday, October 6th being Post-Show and their Q&A Session. Tickets are available at elgintheatreguild.ca/tickets, while those with volunteer interest are welcome to contact Odesa Company through their odesa.company website. Whether through merchandise or ticket purchases, as well as sponsorship opportunities, all con- tributions have a measurable impact on the growth of Odesa Company. Chris — wearing various hats which includes Spon- sorship Outreach — asserts, “These are businesses that I want to continue working and building relationships with.” More- over, Scott and Chris assure that the money raised from The Elephant Man will be directed toward future productions in St. Thomas. Ben concludes, “Odesa Company prides itself on shows that make you laugh, and shows that make you feel. We look forward to seeing you there.”
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Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page 5
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Highlighting Humanitarian, Debbie Hamilton by Peri Hayes
Lifelong volunteer, Debbie Hamilton, strives to spread the word about the positive change that can be created by lending a helping hand to the people of St. Thomas. Debbie often ponders what she can contribute, emphasizing that, “The poverty in our community is heartbreaking.” Through supplying groceries for local civilians, as well as clothing, coffee tabs for students and more, Debbie articulates, “I have always done little things within the community.” As a landlord who proudly has not raised her rental rates in 12 years, cleaning support is an example of the resources which Debbie provides. She shares the inspiring story of a tenant who has consequently transitioned out of isolation and has secured work. Debbie proceeds to describe the ways in which she and others have assisted a mother and son: “As a village, we come together to make change. For example, their bedroom furniture was heavily discounted and the person who delivered their living room furniture stayed to set up their bedroom furniture.” Moreover, discounted flooring for her tenants is one example which Debbie details as effectively advancing the ripple effect. Presently, Debbie is the owner of multiple buildings with a number of tenants: “For every single one of them, I ensure that I make it affordable for them to live.” Debbie enjoys guiding her tenants through the renting process, furthering her support through transportation to appointments, stocking their fridges at home and so forth.
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Another instance of Debbie’s generosity involves remodelling her tenant’s apartment due to deteriorating conditions, and arranging their hotel stay in the meantime. Once complete, she was overjoyed to walk this family through their new home. In addition, Debbie is helping to supplement one of her tenant’s wages in order for this individual to maintain their employment and explore postsecondary education opportunities. This altruistic leader focuses on the root cause, meeting people with compassion and kindness: “I hate to see someone struggling. I have a passion for helping, and for seeing change.” While collaborating with the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, Debbie is an active member in several of the organization’s campaigns and projects. Debbie has been with Co-operators Insurance Company for 25 years, highlighting their donation of $15,000.00 in addition to her personal contribution of $35,000.00 toward Project Tiny Hope: “I am very lucky to work for a company that believes in their community, and shares a value system of giving back.” Delightedly, Debbie is supporting a debut project at the YWCA: a drop-in Coffee Group for their clients and residents, as well as for those with referrals -- which attendees of their Getting Ahead and Youth Independence programs may enjoy. “This is a setting to meet with other people and socialize out of the house, featuring motivational guest speakers and resumé-writing workshops. This Coffee Group will be piloted from October to January. We are currently seeking sponsors for this event, in helping eradicate poverty within our community -- ensuring that support is accessible and no one in our community feels that they are alone.” Though a closed group pilot project, the hope is to secure funding to expand in
2025 and offer Coffee Group to locals who perhaps have not yet explored the abundant opportunities presented at YWCA. Asked what fulfills Debbie in her role, she earnestly replies, “Witnessing the change in the lives of those impacted along the way, and celebrating their move forward in their lives. I do this because it fills my heart to make someone happy.” Debbie has been quietly giving back to her community for years -- whether through gifting a used car, or a pair of ice skates. Debbie’s sister thoughtfully adds to the conversation: “Debbie genuinely cares about the health and well-being of others, to the point that she will put herself last to ensure others have what they need to feel safe and well. She is a true humanitarian.” Debbie concludes by encouraging the ways in which families can receive support, even through modest measures. Working together with care, offering discounts and introducing re- sources are significant contributions toward cultivating a healthy and thriving community.
Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page 7
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Celebrating a Legacy of Golf and Curling in Elgin County
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING – CNC/CAM CLOSE TO HOME Mike Baker, retired Museum Curator, noted the intertwined histories of curling and golf in the area, particularly their Scottish origins. “It was the Scots who flocked to Canada in the 18th and 19th centuries who brought both curling and golf with them,” Mike explains. The first curling club in Canada was established in Montreal in 1807, and the country’s first golf club followed in 1873, also in Montreal. By the late 19th century, Elgin County had its fair share of Scots descendants, which likely fueled the early local interest in these sports. “The St. Thomas Golf & Country Club was one of the first golf courses in Canada, and is celebrating 125 years this year,” Mike adds. “It first started in Pinafore Park, and then, in around 1910, they went up to Talbot Street, where the big box stores are now. That was a nine- hole golf course until they moved out to their current location in Union.” This fall, the Elgin County Heritage Centre (460 Sunset Dr., St. Thomas) invites the community to explore the rich histories of two sports that have long held significance in the region -- golf and curling. The new exhibit, Power & Precision: Elgin’s Golf and Curling History Explored, runs from September 3 to December 7, 2024, and delves into the local legacy of these sports, highlighting the achievements of players, the evolution of clubs, and the deep roots of these activities in Elgin County. The timing of this exhibit is fitting. As autumn approaches, many Elgin residents will soon transition from swinging golf clubs on the green to sweeping brooms on the curling rink. These two sports, often seen as seasonal complements, attract enthusiasts who appreciate the pursuit of the perfect shot and the camaraderie accompanying each game. MECHANICAL ENGINEERING – CNC/CAM CLOSE TO HOME
The St. Thomas Curling Club, first established in 1878, saw a resurgence in 1893 with the formation of the Granite Curling Club, which constructed a covered rink on Metcalf Street. This foundation laid the groundwork for a thriving curling community in the region, producing notable figures like St. Thomas-born Jim Waite. Waite, a retired schoolteacher and principal, is no stranger to precision. As a four-time Canadian Men’s Olympic Curling Coach, he led teams to two silver and two gold medals. His contributions to curling are celebrated in the exhibit, where visitors can view his Olympic memorabilia, including the torch he carried during the 2010 Olympic torch relay through St. Thomas. Waite’s stories from his time on the ice are legendary. Museum Curator Maddy Howard, with Mike Baker and Former Olympic Men’s Curling Coach Jim Waite.
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One such tale recalls an early bonspiel when Waite, then just a young player, found himself on Don Anderson’s team in the finals against a team led by renowned curler Alfie Phillips. “We’ve got a little biter, and so Phillips makes a draw,” Waite recalls. “Halfway down, it picks and goes sideways. So, we win. But Don walks out, kicks the rock back to Alfie, and says, ‘We don’t want to win that way.’ Alfie threw it through the house on purpose. He didn’t want to win that way either.”
the 1920s. The exhibit also showcases curling stones used by A.E. Ponsford at the 1910 Winnipeg Bonspiel, offering a tangible connection to the early days of these sports. Curated by Maddy Howard, who has taken over the role from Mike since his retirement, the exhibit is a blend of history and community pride. Howard has expertly assembled artifacts from the museum’s collection and borrowed items from local sports figures, ensuring that Power & Precision is a celebration of past achievements and an inspiration for future generations of golfers and curlers. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to these sports, the exhibit offers a unique opportunity to explore the heritage of golf and curling in Elgin County. As the leaves change and the seasons shift, the Elgin County Heritage Centre provides a warm and welcoming space to reflect on the power and precision that have defined these beloved sports for over a century.
A highlight of the exhibit is the Malahide Medal, a curling award competed for annually since 1865, making it the oldest curling prize in Canada. Teams from London, Aylmer, and St. Thomas have vied for this prestigious medal for over a century and a half, and its presence in the exhibit serves as a testament to the enduring tradition of curling in the region. The golf side of the exhibit is equally compelling, featuring the Gilbert Medal, first awarded in 1906, and clubs used by the St. Thomas Golf & Country Club’s first pro, Tom Pullen Sr., in
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Find all the STEA logos in this month’s issue of Hometown St. Thomas and WIN $50 STEA Dollars – redeemable at any STEA member business! To enter, simply email your guess and phone number to hometown@ villagerpublications.com by October 29th, 2024 for your chance to win. Prize has no cash value, must be 18 years old and an Elgin County Resident to win. The chances of winning depend on a number of entries.
Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page 9
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Smoke Detectors Save Lives! Fire Prevention Week, running from October 6th to 12th, is an essential time to raise awareness about home fire safety. This year’s theme, ‘Smoke alarms: Make them work for you! ™’, focuses on the importance of having functional smoke alarms in every home. The campaign emphasizes three crucial actions: INSTALL, TEST, and REPLACE. Understanding the importance of these steps can make all the difference in a fire emergency. Smoke alarms are a critical first line of defence against home fires. Today’s homes burn faster than ever, giving you as little as two minutes — or even less — to safely escape once a fire starts. This narrow window of time makes it vital that your smoke alarms are in optimal working condition and strategically placed. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside of sleeping areas (such as hallways), and on every level of your home, including the basement. When choosing a smoke alarm, make sure it is listed with Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC), which ensures it meets the necessary safety standards. For enhanced protection, consider using combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that are interconnected throughout the home. These alarms can be installed by a qualified electrician so that when one alarm sounds, all alarms in the home are triggered. This feature ensures that you will hear the alarm no matter where the fire starts. Regular testing of your smoke alarms is just as important as installing them. Testing ensures that the alarms are functioning correctly and that their batteries are still good. It’s recommended
to test your alarms once a month by pressing the test button. If your alarms are battery-operated, replace the batteries every six months when the time changes or whenever the low-battery warning sounds. Additionally, smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years, even if they still appear to be working. Whether at home, at the cottage, or in a trailer, fire prevention is something everyone should prioritize. A well-thought-out escape plan is crucial for ensuring your family’s safety. Ensure that every household member knows the plan and practices it regularly. Remember, children, older adults, and people with disabilities may need assistance to wake up and get out in case of a fire. Assign someone to help them in your plan. By following these guidelines and staying informed about the latest fire prevention best practices, you can ensure that your smoke alarms will genuinely work for you in an emergency. Don’t wait until it’s too late — take action now to protect your home and loved ones.
For more information, or to access our smoke alarm program, contact St. Thomas Fire Dept. 519-631-0210
Check your smoke and CO detectors’ expiry date and change the batteries!
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Salute to First Responders Sponsored by #IVEGOTYOURBACK911
In St. Thomas, we are fortunate to have dedicated first responders, and among them is Molly Jenkins, a 26-year-old firefighter who has served the St. Thomas Fire Department (STFD) since November 28, 2022. As a third-class firefighter, Molly is part of a dedicated team that ensures our community’s safety and well-being, often working 24-hour shifts and being on call for anything from fires to medical emergencies. Molly’s journey to becoming a firefighter is deeply rooted in her love for teamwork, which stems from her sports background, particularly hockey. “I played pretty high-level hockey throughout my childhood and into university,” she explains. “It coordinates with this job because, like in sports, firefighting is all about teamwork. You can’t do it alone; you have to rely on your team.” That sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility is one of the most important aspects of firefighting. “When the tones drop, and the bells ring, you’re on the truck with your team, ready to respond. Whether it’s a med call, fire, or motor vehicle collision (MVC), you’re constantly communicating with your partner to ensure you’re ready when you step off that truck.” Molly also shared how much she enjoys the unpredictability of the job. “It’s something different every day. You never know what you’re going to get. It’s not a typical desk job where you show up and know what to expect.” This excitement is what keeps Molly engaged. She adds, “I like that it keeps you on your toes. Never a dull day around here, that’s for sure.” Despite the excitement, firefighting comes with its share of challenges. The stress of responding to emergencies and witnessing the worst days of people’s lives can be heavy. But Molly and her fellow firefighters are supported by an array of mental health resources. “We have a lot of great support systems in place. You see things you’re not supposed to see, things the average person wouldn’t, so having that safety net is crucial.” Molly herself enjoys getting back into nature as her method of coping with stress. When asked about the most challenging aspect of the job, Molly says it’s the lack of closure. “One of the hardest parts is the lack of knowledge or closure you get after a call about the individual you’ve helped. Doing all that you can to help on the
scene and not knowing the outcome once the scene or patient is handed off definitely takes a toll.” One of the unique experiences Molly enjoys is being able to serve the community where she grew up. “It’s cool to work in a town you’ve grown up in. Knowing the streets and the people and being able to give back to the community that raised me— it’s an amazing feeling. I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Molly Jenkins, like all first responders, is an everyday hero. Her dedication, professionalism, and enthusiasm for the job make her the person you want to see when you’re having your worst day. Through teamwork, resilience, and compassion, she and her fellow firefighters ensure that when the call comes in, they are ready to serve and protect.
Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page 11
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Accelerating Support for Christmas Care 2024 by Peri Hayes
Involved with Christmas Care since 2019, Richard Auckland became President in 2022. Founded in 1980 by members of The Salvation Army, Christmas Care collaborates with generous organizations and dedicated volunteers who offer their time and treasures. Richard states, “Our goal is to provide food and toys for those less fortunate during the Christmas season. While founded on Christian principles, we serve people regardless of their religious affiliation.” Richard emphasizes what excites him about this initiative, “The fact that we’ve got lots of volunteers willing to assist, and a consistent location for the past several years -- Memorial Arena Auditorium. We have volunteers to lead the administration, food and toys, which makes for a smooth operation. We’ve had a tremendous outpouring of donations already.” Richard proceeds to announce: “We are looking to gather all supplies by the end of November, so we can ensure that they get into our hampers. Donations afterward will go toward the Food Bank, Harvest Hands and other organizations which help with food security in St. Thomas and area.” The Christmas Care team encourages donations to be locally sourced, especially in regard to toys. Board games, craft supplies and colouring books, dolls, journals, Lego sets, novels for grades four to six, outdoor activities, puzzles, science kits, sketchbooks and waterproof mittens or gloves are being collected this year. Moreover, with their goal to provide engaging and interactive opportunities for the children and families which they serve, technological toys are not preferred: “We suggest
no technology of any kind, as we are not aware of the devices that families have.” Christmas Care is gathering toys designated for newborns to age eleven, while ages twelve to sixteen will receive gift cards -- whether this be for Canadian Tire, the Dollar Store, Walmart, or a variety of local establishments. Beginning in November, the Christmas Care packaging and registration process will commence at the St. Thomas-Elgin Memorial Arena on Wilson Ave. Meanwhile, toys, food and monetary gifts are presently being graciously accepted in person, as well as online or by mail. Christmas Care is getting a jump on things this year with a storefront at Elgin Centre near the west entrance (by JYSK). Starting on October 1st (yes, Christmas is coming), they will start by accepting donations of food and toys there. Their full operations, including registration, will begin in early November at their Memorial Arena Auditorium—Wilson Ave. location. Kindly consider your capacity to support a local family this upcoming holiday season. Monitored throughout November and December, inquiries by phone are welcome at 519-637-0710. In the meantime, their info@christmascarestthomas.com email address is the suitable method of contact.
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Hasselback Beets Looking to impress your family and guests this Thanksgiving without overspending? Try Chef Olivia’s Hasselback Beets – an elegant and budget-friendly side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any dinner gathering! Ingredients: • 12 small to medium red and yellow beets, scrubbed • ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil • kosher salt and black pepper, to taste Brown butter sage sauce:
• 1 stick salted butter • 14 leaves fresh sage • freshly cracked black pepper to taste • 1/2 lemon • Parmesan cheese Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 375° F (190° C).
THE TURKEY SHOPPE Fresh or frozen turkey or turkey roasts, plus all the fixings! Cranberry sauce, stuffing, gravy, brining kit, sparkling juice. Your Thanksgiving Headquarters! 2. Peel beets and trim root and stem ends to create a flat surface so they will not roll around when roasting. Slice each beet crosswise at 1/8-in (0.25 cm) intervals, cutting to within 1/4-in (0.5 cm) of the bottom, taking care not to cut all the way through. Place flat-side down in a baking tray or cast iron dish, drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Cover the baking dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and roast for 30 minutes; remove the aluminum foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until easily pierced with a knife. 3. Cut the butter into large pieces and add it to a light-coloured pan over medium heat. 4. As soon as the butter starts to foam up add the sage leaves, (make sure they are dry) and cook together for 3 to 5 minutes.
5. The butter will foam up and start turning brown. Do not touch it, and do not stir. 6. The moment the foam subsides remove from heat. The sage should be crispy by now. Hit it with a squeeze of lemon juice. 7. To serve, transfer warm beets to a serving platter. Drizzle with brown butter sage sauce and top with freshly grated Parmesan.
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Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page 13
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Come Sail Away with Cast-A-Way Founded in 1998 and based right here in St. Thomas, Cast-A- Way is a Canadian recruitment agency that connects talented individuals with employment opportunities on some of the world’s most prestigious cruise lines and duty-free companies. As CEO, Fabiana Estrela, explains, “We provide meaningful employment opportunities to candidates looking for a lifestyle or career change, offering 5-6-star international experience in the hospitality industry.” With clients such as Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and more, Cast-A-Way has established itself as a leader in the niche cruise and resort hiring market. Cast-A-Way primarily serves individuals over 21, the minimum drinking age in the USA, a requirement for working on cruise ships. Candidates must possess skills or experience relevant to the wide range of positions available onboard. “A ship is essentially a floating hotel,” Fabiana points out. “On average, there are approximately 160 different roles available on ships, serving anywhere from 1,000 to 1,850 crew members, who cater to up to 7,000 guests on the largest ships.” These roles span departments like entertainment, culinary, guest services, retail, IT, and deck and engine positions. Fabiana emphasizes the qualities they look for in candidates: “We seek energetic, positive individuals who want to travel the world while providing exceptional services to international guests. Candidates need to be versatile, resourceful, and able to adapt to a fast-paced environment. While extra languages are a great asset, all crew members must have a strong command of English, as it is the international language onboard.”
Fabiana’s journey with Cast-A-Way is rooted in her experience as a crew member. Before joining the agency, she worked as a Project Coordinator for the St. Thomas-Elgin Local Immigration Partnership and decided to take a vacation cruise on the Carnival Glory. It was during a ‘Behind the Fun Tour’, which takes guests through crew areas, the galley and the engine room, that she became inspired to work onboard. “I got excited to travel the world,” she recalls. “I rented out my home and decided to spend a year travelling. I applied for a Media Manager position, was hired, and completed two six-month contracts, visiting 49 countries.” After returning to St. Thomas, Fabiana saw an opportunity to assist others in finding similar roles. She reached out to Cast-A-Way, the agency that had placed her, and began Adrian Zamfir enjoyed 12 years working aboard a cruise ship.
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Page 14 Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024
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working as a recruiter for South America. “I noticed the need for multilingual crew members, and with my ability to speak Spanish and Portuguese, I started helping with recruitment,” she says. After a year, the owner offered her a management role and the potential for a 50% share of the company if she could help it grow. “From 2018 to 2020, we grew over 500%, and I became a shareholder. After the pandemic, our growth exceeded 1000%, and I eventually purchased the remaining shares, becoming the sole owner.” For those considering a career at sea, Fabiana highlights the many perks of working onboard. “Crew members enjoy free living costs, including accommodation, 24-hour food service, medical coverage, and access to free laundry and gym facilities. Plus, being paid in USD can be a great advantage, especially with the Canadian dollar’s fluctuations. Discounts on duty-free items, onboard spa services, and shore excursions are also available to crew members.” Additionally, some positions come with ‘guest privileges’, allowing the crew to use restaurants and entertainment facilities when off-duty. “For me, the best perk was visiting the ports of call and enjoying the onboard entertainment, from comedy shows to deck parties.” Adrian Zamfir, who worked for Carnival Cruise Line for 12 years, shares his experience as an example of the growth potential within the cruise industry. Starting as a photographer, Adrian was promoted to Photo Manager and eventually moved into the Entertainment department, where he became the Entertainment Technical Manager. “I was responsible for all technical aspects of entertainment onboard, from shows to in- cabin TV and satellite reception,” he explains. “Working with top-notch technology only found in venues like Las Vegas or Broadway was a unique opportunity.”
Adrian also enjoyed the travel opportunities. “I was able to visit almost 50 countries, from the Caribbean to Alaska, Europe, and South America,” he says. “But it wasn’t just about travel. I made lifelong friends worldwide and participated in some amazing crew parties.” However, Adrian notes that working on a cruise ship is not without its challenges. “Crew members work every day for their contract, typically six months, with 10–12-hour days. It can be tough initially, but the benefits outweigh the challenges.” He emphasizes the financial advantages, noting that crew members can save a significant portion of their income since living costs are covered. “It’s a great way to save for tuition, a car, or a house down payment,” he adds. “And where else can you have breakfast in a different country every day?” Adrian advises allowing time to adjust for those who are unsure about working on a cruise. “The transition from land-based work to ship life can be challenging, but the rewards are well worth it once you adapt. The experience and skills you gain are invaluable.” Cast-A-Way remains the only Canadian agency in this industry, providing a gateway to unique opportunities for those ready to embark on an adventure. “The culture onboard fosters resilience, teamwork, and communication skills,” Fabiana says. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can open doors to future career success while allowing you to see the world.” If you or someone you love might find this an adventure of a lifetime, Fabiana encourages you to check out their website at www.cast-a-way.com to apply, or more information.
Create Your Own Holiday Magic!
Join us for a day of merriment
CHRISTMAS market
FOOD. ARTISANS. ENTERTAINMENT.
Looking for unique holiday décor or heartfelt gifts? Join us for Christmas pottery painting! Choose from a variety of festive pieces—ornaments, mugs, plates, and more. Whether it’s for decorating your home or gifting something handmade, there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit. Fun for all ages—come in today and craft lasting memories!
November 16 10am-4pm
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Hometown St. Thomas • November 2023 • Page 15 Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page
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To advertise here, please contact Geoff@VillagerPublications.com Peter believes the key to the STEA’s success is its emphasis on relationships. “It’s more of a friendship that develops between The STEA was the vision of Peter Inch, now of Peter Inch and Associates Heating and Air Conditioning. Peter, a member of the London Executive Association, saw potential for a similar group in St. Thomas. “I felt,” Peter shared, “that it could be as successful as London, on a smaller scale, but just as effective in bringing leads and business to members.” With financial backing from the London group and support from local business leaders like Ron Elliott of Shoppers Drug Mart and Rob Quai of Quai du Vin Estate Winery, the STEA quickly gained traction. “We were able to get 30 members in our first year,” Peter recalls, “and didn’t need to cash a cheque from the London Executive Association because we had enough from initiation fees to cover all of our bills.” Celebrating 25 Years of The St. Thomas Executive Association by Geoff Rae The St. Thomas Executive Association (STEA), a local business networking group, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Founded in 1999, the group meets weekly over lunch to discuss each other’s businesses, successes and challenges, all while supporting one another’s growth. What makes the STEA unique among networking groups is that it allows only one member per business category. As a proud member representing the Magazine Advertising category, I first joined while working with the Weekly News from 2015 until its closure in 2017. Initially, I wasn’t sure how much a networking group could benefit my business, but it quickly became clear. As I flipped through the pages of the paper, I saw how many STEA members were already doing business with us. When we launched Hometown St. Thomas , I was excited to rejoin in 2022 when the Print Advertising category became available again. For me, this group of like-minded business owners and friends has been vital to the ongoing growth of my business. I’ve heard it said that being a member of the STEA is like having 30 non-commissioned salespeople out in the community, promoting your business.
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Page 16 Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024
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members, and business naturally flows from that,” he said. For Peter, success in the group boils down to two things: giving business and showing up. “Start giving business or leads right away, and you’ll see it come back in return. But if you only attend occasionally, those relationships aren’t built. When you come to every meeting, sit at a different table, and build those connections, business follows.” Chris and Nicole Forbes, owners of Elgin County Plumbing, joined STEA last year to expand their business and to connect with local entrepreneurs. “We thought it would be a good opportunity to meet new business owners in our area,” says Nicole. Since joining, they’ve seen the benefits. “We’ve been able to network with more local businesses and gain exposure for our own,” adds Chris. The smaller, close-knit nature of the group appealed to them. “With it being a smaller group, we felt like we’d have more meaningful interactions,” Nicole shares. In their short time with the STEA, Chris and Nicole have already expanded their network and made valuable connections. “We’ve met some great entrepreneurs who’ve been incredibly supportive,” they say. The STEA will host a special 25th-anniversary event on October 29th. This celebration will reflect on the group’s legacy and invite any past members to contact Terry Carroll at office@stea.org for more information. To learn more about the STEA or inquire about membership, contact Terry or visit www.stea.org. Top photo is of the current STEA. Bottom photo is of the original STEA in ‘99.
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Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page 17
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Hindu Spiritual and Religious Centre by Peri Hayes Pandit Ved Parkash Shastri, otherwise regarded as Panditji, delightedly discusses Hindu Spiritual and Religious Centre, which is known as Shree Hari Har Mandir, alongside Grace Wilson as his translator. Panditji has been involved with this mandir (temple) for three years and counting, as Grace asserts, “He has changed the image of this mandir. ” Panditji moved from Montréal, with experience in this field for 30 years combined between Canada and India. Board members in Toronto recruited him, to which Grace reveals, “The number of devotees has gone up. He has done so much for this mandir, it is unbelievable.” Shree Hari Har Mandir is a place for worship and education about the relationship to Hinduism in the modern age. There is a television featured in their main space for tuning into worship occurring in India. Aarti takes place at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday. Moreover, Pooja is offered on Sunday from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm with lunch which follows. Grace also details that Shloks and Pravachan are given by Panditji, in addition to singing songs called Kirten . She proceeds to describe, “This is a place to connect with God. I come here and sit peacefully. It lifts up the weight, and presents new perspectives on life.” During our conversation, I observe Panditji as he clutches a bracelet. He shares the ways in which the bracelet has religious benefits, and is scientifically proven to physically remove pressure in the body by pushing on the beads with one’s fingers. Panditji encourages, “Everyone should give an hour or two to worship and to get in touch with their peace, or
their peace of mind.” To this, Grace continues, “We achieve this when we join together as a community in a place where we all belong.” This mandir is not limited to St. Thomas, with various devotees travelling from out of town. Their festivities — such as the Independence Day of India on August 15th, and their most recent Anniversary Celebration which carried five buses of devotees from Brampton for their participation — are celebrated with camaraderie, food, music and worship. Approximately 500 people attended the mandir’s third anniversary since their reopening, donating with love and providing a delicious smorgasbord of Indian cuisine for Sunday breakfast and lunch.
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Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Investments. Protection. Freedom. I can share helpful tips and recommendations on how you can plan for a brighter financial future. Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com Your local Sun Life Advisor for 22 plus years and counting. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Life insurance • Critical illness insurance • Estate and Financial Planning *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. Plan for your future farm needs. Let’s talk about steps you can take to protect your business and yourself. It all starts with a conversation.
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Page 18 Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024
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