Issuu

Inside PAGE 02

•____________________________ Sales Update & Floorplan

PAGE 03

•____________________________ Marketing Update

PAGE 06

•____________________________ A Message from Doug Tarry

PAGE 08

• Add Space. Ask Us. ____________________________

PAGE 09

•__________________________ Miller’s Pond

PAGE 13

•____________________________ Harvest Run

PAGE 18

SEPTEMBER

Monthly Newsletter

•____________________________ Eagle Ridge

PAGE 20

•____________________________ Upcoming Events

PAGE 21

• Small Business • Welcome to the Team ____________________________

PAGE 22

•____________________________ Careers

PAGE 23

•____________________________ Community Partner

PAGE 24

• Decor ____________________________

PAGE 25

•____________________________ Home Tight

PAGE 26

•____________________________ Abode Home Comfort

PAGE 27

•____________________________ Designers Corner

PAGE 28

• Customer Care ____________________________

PAGE 29

•____________________________ Tarion Update

PAGE 30

•____________________________ Buy a home. Give a home

PAGE 31

•____________________________ HST Rebate

PAGE 32

•____________________________ 90 for 90

PAGE 37

•____________________________ Recipe of the Month

Happy September from all of us at Doug Tarry Homes! As summer winds down and a new school year begins, we want to wish all the students, teachers, parents, and school staff in our community a fantastic first day back to school! Here’s to new routines, new adventures, and a great school year ahead!

At home or on your phone, go to dougtarryhomes.com

Sales Update

Explore the possibilities

Floorplan Options

August has come and gone, the kids are heading back to school, and September is bringing us back to our regular routines. As much as we hate to say goodbye to summer, there’s something nice about getting everyone back on schedule. And speaking of fresh starts and new routines... how about starting yours in a new Doug Tarry home? If a new home has been on your mind, now is a great time to see what’s available. Visit our website to explore our available lots and Quick Possession Homes. Whether you’re looking for something move-in ready or planning to build, we have a variety of homes, floor plans and communities to explore.

The Sapphire: optional ensuite linen

And don’t forget, the HST rebate is already built into our pricing, so you can easily see your savings upfront.

Each month, we’re excited to showcase how flexible and adaptable your future home can be with us.

New season. New routine. Maybe even a new home!

An optional ensuite linen closet offers convenience, organization, added value, luxury, and privacy by keeping towels and toiletries easily accessible and personal items separate from the main household linen storage.

Until next month...

the Sales team Page 2 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Welcome! August... where has the summer gone? It feels like we were just getting started, and suddenly we’re wrapping up another busy month at Doug Tarry Homes. We certainly ended summer on a high note, with plenty happening both within our company and throughout the community.

One of the biggest moments this month was officially breaking ground on the 90 for 90 LifeARK™, a special project supporting the final piece of Project Tiny Hope in partnership with the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin. This all-electric home will be built and sold as a fundraiser, with a goal of raising at least $90,000 for the Tiny Hope Program House. As our fourth LifeARK™ and our first all-electric version, it also represents another step forward in our commitment to resilient, high-performance housing. There’s a much bigger story behind 90 for 90, so be sure to read more about it in the article titled “90 for 90”.

August also gave us plenty of opportunities to give back. Our annual Back to School Supply Drive with the St. Thomas Police Service was once again a success. We’ve been proud to support this initiative for several years, and seeing the community come together to donate new school supplies for local students in need never gets old.

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 3

Members of the Doug Tarry Homes and Abode teams participated in the annual All Hands on Deck Food Drive. Community helping community is incredibly important to us, and we’re always happy to lend a hand where we can.

We were proud to support the Royal LePage Triland Charity BBQ, with this year’s proceeds benefiting the YWCA. Drew had the pleasure of delivering our sponsorship cheque, helping support an organization that continues to make such a meaningful difference in our community.

Suzie had a busy month as well! She welcomed some of the players from the U16 BB Stars hockey team during their summer break. It was great to have them stop by before heading back to the ice for another exciting season.

Page 4 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Suzie participated in a round-table discussion at the Chamber office with Stephanie Bowman, MPP for Don Valley West, providing an opportunity to discuss housing, challenges facing our communities and some of the work happening locally. Following the discussion, Suzie took Stephanie on a tour of Project Tiny Hope, where she was able to see firsthand the affordable housing work underway in partnership with the YWCA. Thank you to the Chamber for providing the opportunity to share what’s happening right here in St. Thomas.

And finally, August gave us a chance to celebrate an incredible relationship that has stood the test of time. Doug recently got together with Denis Hebert of Jay Dee Concrete Forming to recognize 40 years of working together. Four decades is quite the milestone! Denis and the Jay Dee team have been an important part of the Doug Tarry Homes story, helping us build quality homes and communities throughout our region. From breaking ground and celebrating long-standing partnerships to supporting local organizations and initiatives, August was another reminder of just how much can happen in one month. Now, somehow, it’s already time to see what September has in store! Warm regards,

The Sales and Marketing Team SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 5

A message from our President AIR CONTROL Build It Tight and Ventilate Right. That’s a mantra we use a great deal at Doug Tarry Homes. But what does it really mean? Air Control, or air tightness, comprises one of the two commandments that I write about in my book “From Bleeding Edge to Leading Edge: A Builders Guide to Net Zero Homes”. It is one of the commandments because it is just that important. From an energy efficiency perspective, we want to control the loss of conditioned air from inside the building and ensure we can clean and temper the fresh air we are bringing into the building. With a poorly constructed home with lots of air leakage, you can’t control the flow of air. This will increase the cost of operating your home as much as 20% for a home built to current codes over the Net Zero air tightness requirements, and significantly more for a leaky older home. Not only does this cost homeowners and tenants more in their energy bills, but it also affects the quality of the air they breathe. Imagine the air coming into your home comes through the insulation in the walls. It acts like a filter, but it also collects the bad stuff in the air and can lead to mold and other particulate that you end up breathing. This can affect the health of you and your family. That’s one of the reasons I am troubled when builders say a Code built home is “just as good”

Page 6 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

as ENERGY STAR® or Net Zero and then they say they don’t enroll their homes in the programs because what they do is “too expensive” or “a waste of time” - the bottom line is that unless a builder is testing their homes, they simply don’t know how their home performs. We have tested hundreds of homes and developed different techniques and details to reduce our air leakage – first below 2.5 ACH, then below 1.5 and, ultimately, down to our current average of below 1.0. Using advanced sealing technology, we’ve even taken a semi-detached home down to 0.15 ACH. That was an amazing result, and one that we know we can repeat. I share some of these techniques in my book. Air tightness is so important, that we invested in the area franchise of AeroBarrier (through our company Home Tight), a system that can guarantee performance results for every home we build. And that’s just another example of the Doug Tarry Difference.

Doug Tarry Jr. President, Doug Tarry Homes

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 7

add space.

add value.

A Doug Tarry finished basement means

ASK US.

comfort, durability, and thoughtful design from top to bottom. Our team ensures your basement meets the same Better Built, energy-efficient standards as the rest of your home.

Ready to finish your basement? Let’s get started. Contact our team today for a consultation.

your basement could look like this! Email: contact@dougtarryhomes.com At home or on your phone, go to www.dougtarryhomes.com Page 8 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Prices, specifications and information subject to change without notice. E.O.E.

Miller’s Pond SEPTEMBER IS HERE With September and back-to-school season upon us, I have really noticed a pickup in activity over the past few weeks! Now that the government has officially legislated the HST rebate, more buyers are realizing just what a great opportunity this is. Lots in Miller’s Pond are filling up quickly; with a handful of deposits made in August, awareness continues to grow! If you’ve been thinking about making a move, now is a great time to take a closer look. Speaking of taking a closer look! Here is a list of detached homes we are building RIGHT NOW.

BUNGALOWS:

TWO STOREY:

The Rosewood

The Willow

The Knollwood

The Monroe

The Morningdale

The Stonehaven

The Glenwood

The Aspen The Livingston

These homes are under construction but please reach out and we can explore to see if these would be a great fit for you! Call 519-207-3066 or email dcaspi@dougtarryhomes.com

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 9

Miller’s Pond

Town Homes - starting at $483,300!! All our Town homes include appliances, decks and finished basements, value hard to beat for under $500k. These units are fully electric, built to deliver exceptional comfort, efficiency, and cleaner indoor air quality. As ENERGY STAR® and Net Zero Ready Certified, our Town homes are designed to exceed today’s building standards.

QPs in MP

95 Styles- $723,635 Main Floor Master Bedroom!? You have to come see it. This captivating 1,937 sq. f., two-storey residence encapsulates modern living at its finest. The home features three generously sized bedrooms and 2.5 well-appointed baths. A two-car garage provides secure parking and storage, while the main floor presents a master bedroom and laundry room for ultimate convenience.

Page 10 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

$10,000 PRICE REDUCTION Check out these semi-detached units, with NO compromise. These units are spacious, sitting at 1,845 sq. ft. The main floor features a great room that seamlessly flows into an openconcept dining area and a modern kitchen, complete with our signature Doug Tarry pantry and a generous island—perfect for hosting family and friends. Upstairs, you’ll find a fantastic master bedroom with a private ensuite and walk-in closet, along with two additional well-sized bedrooms and a full bathroom. For added convenience, the laundry room is also located on the second floor. 112 Styles- was $594,873

NOW $584,873

114 Styles – was $595,006

NOW $585,006

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 11

Miller’s Pond

Semi Bungalows are BACK – after selling out in MP5 , our favourites are back again… with DECKS!!

Easton

29 Kiln Lane - $556,403 2 beds, 2 baths, main floor laundry!

Rockwood

35 Kiln Lane - $612,612 Large expansive porch on corner lot, fully finished basement, butler’s pantry!

Valleybrook

33 Kiln Lane - $557,554 2 + 2 bedrooms, fully finished basement, lovely open concept!

I am headed to my baseball team’s Sr Provincial Championships; will provide an update on how the boys make out in October. I am sure you may care more about my beautiful 7-month-old daughter Kendall. She is doing so well, trying lots of new foods, standing up, and making the trip to Kincardine to cheer on her Dad! I wish everyone heading back to school a safe and super year! Shoutout to all the wonderful teachers and school staff who make it happen.

Page 12 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Harvest Run Walking & Talking in Harvest Run

Some friendships start in unexpected places; ours started with a home purchase! Margaret was the very first client I sold a home to when I joined Doug Tarry Homes over three years ago. What started as a client relationship quickly turned into a friendship, and three years later, we still love getting together for coffee, catching up and, of course, a little gossip! Now, we’re taking our friendship outside and adding walking to the mix! We’re inviting our Harvest Run neighbours to join us for a casual Walk & Talk on the last Wednesday of every month. No agenda, no fancy workout required… just a chance to get some fresh air, meet your neighbours, chat, laugh and maybe get a few steps in along the way. So grab your walking shoes and come join us! Margaret and I will see you on the last Wednesday of every month for a little Walking & Talking in Harvest Run. Because the best communities aren’t just built with homes — they’re built with friendships.

Contact: Jackie 519-207-6222 or jdasilva@dougtarryhomes.com

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 13

Harvest Run Update Your next home could be waiting for you in Harvest Run. There’s still time to find your perfect home in one of St. Thomas’ most sought-after communities, with a few exciting opportunities remaining.

50’ Lots on Harrow Lane

We have beautiful 50-foot lots remaining on Harrow Lane, including lots backing onto Centennial Road. If you’ve been waiting for a larger lot with a great setting, this is an opportunity worth exploring. Both premium lots back onto Centennial Road, offering added privacy with no future neighbours behind you. If you’ve been dreaming of extra outdoor space or room to grow, these lots are the perfect fit. Lot 20 and Lot 34 Harrow Lane can accommodate a stunning wide bungalow or the custom two-storey home of your dreams, giving you the flexibility to build a home that truly suits your lifestyle. If you’ve been thinking about building new, now is the perfect time to secure one of these oversized lots and take advantage of the new tax rebate, creating even more value and savings.

Page 14 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Harvest Run QUICK POSSESSION HOMES

Looking for a home sooner rather than later? We currently have a few quick possession semidetached homes available, including the Elmwood’s and the Rockwood. These homes offer the perfect opportunity to skip the wait and move into a brand-new Doug Tarry home now.

The Rockwood

This beautiful corner lot semi-detached bungalow truly checks all the boxes. From the abundance of windows that fill the home with natural light to the thoughtfully designed open-concept layout, every space feels warm and inviting. Enjoy a spacious main-floor primary suite, convenient main-floor laundry, a stunning oversized butler’s pantry, and a bright den that’s perfect for a home office, reading nook, or cozy retreat. The fully finished basement offers even more room to relax, entertain, or host family and friends. If you’ve been searching for a home that blends comfort, style, and functionality, the Rockwood is ready to welcome you home.

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 15

Harvest Run The Elmwood is truly a fan favorite with pricing starting in the mid $500s, offering: • 3 spacious bedrooms • 2.5 bathrooms • Thoughtfully designed layouts perfect for families, professionals, or first-time buyers There’s no better time than now to make your move with the new tax rebate available on all of our homes, creating incredible added value and huge savings for buyers. Harvest Run continues to thrive as a welcoming neighbourhood known for quality homes, community charm, and convenient access to everything you need.

To book your personal tour, contact: Jackie DaSilva 519-207-6222 or jdasilva@dougtarryhomes.com

Page 16 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Harvest Run Now Under Construction - the Edenbrook. We’ve broken ground on a beautiful 4-bedroom detached quick possession Edenbrook home, located on lot 13 Harrow Lane. Discover the Edenbrook, a stunning home offering over 2,000 sq. ft. of beautifully designed living space. Featuring 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a luxury ensuite, this home blends comfort, elegance, and functionality. Situated on a premium corner lot, the Edenbrook boasts an open-concept layout perfect for modern family living, with thoughtful details throughout. Looking for space, style, and value? This one checks all the boxes. With construction now underway, this home is one to watch!

THE

EDENBROOK A Quick possession home

4 BEDROOM 2.5 BATH 2,140 ft 2

EXTERIOR

PACKAGE

34 Harrow Lane Lot 13, Harvest Run

INTERIOR

PACKAGE

34 Harrow Lane Lot 13, Harvest Run

$739,134

Jackie DaSilva

519Ͳ207Ͳ6222 jdasilva@dougtarryhomes.com

34 Harrow Lane, St. Thomas Lot 13, Harvest Run

Colours and patterns may slightly vary from physical materials. The images shown are only intended as a representation of selections chosen. E.&OE.

This plan is property of Doug Tarry Homes. Renderings are artist’s concept. Prices, specifications, plans and information are subject to change without notice. See sales representatives for more information. E.O.E.

Colours and patterns may slightly vary from physical materials. The images shown are only intended as a representation of selections chosen. E.&OE.

Whether you’re looking for a spacious 50-foot lot, a quick possession semi, or a brand-new detached home, there are still some great opportunities available in Harvest Run. Give Jackie a call 519-207-6222 SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 17

Eagle Ridge Who knew Eagle Ridge was the Pot of Gold at the end of the rainbow?! Learn more about the deep lots along Hawk’s Gate available for your new build. Contact Cathy Fox 519-266-4561 cfox@dougtarryhomes.com.

THE VIEWS ARE ALWAYS CHARMING HERE.

Lot 54 Hawk’s Gate is ready and waiting for its forever buyer! This beautiful deep lot (just over 160 feet deep) is also an extra depth foundation lot, which means you will have lower window wells and more natural light in your basement. We have so many great plans that will be perfect on this lot. You choose - bungalow or two-storey - and let’s get started on your dream home!

Page 18 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

$780,379

PRICE INCLUDES ALL FEATURES

The Livingston B Quick POSSESSION HOME

Lot #52 Hawk’s Gate Municipal #18 Eagle Ridge, St. Thomas

MOVE IN READY SEPT 22, 2026 Welcome to Eagle Ridge!

FEATURES INCLUDE: •

Daylight Basement

•

Plumbing and electrical upgrades

•

Quartz Countertops in Kitchen and Ensuite

•

Upgraded door hardware

•

Cabinetry Upgrades

Situated on a deep lot in Eagle Ridge, the Livingston is the perfect design for busy family living. This 1874 sq. ft. home offers a spacious kitchen with island and walkͲin pantry, seamlessly connected to the great room. The main floor laundry and mudroom can handle anything your family can throw at it. The second level offers 3 bedrooms with large closets in each room and 3pc main bath. The large master bedroom is adjacent to a beautiful ensuite with ceramic flooring, quartz countertop and walk in shower. The basement is unfinished and ready for your future plans.

For more info, contact Cathy Fox

cfox@dougtarryhomes.com | 519Ͳ266Ͳ4561 Published July 2026 . E.&O.E.

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 19 *The ENERGY STAR® mark is administered and promoted in Canada by Natural Resources Canada and used with permission.

Upcoming Events PSTR: Murder & Mystery Dinner Train 2026 September 5/12/19, 2026

Savour Horton Local Chefs Series September 14, 2026

Train departs at 6:00 p.m. (board at 5pm) with

Each week, a local guest chef pulls back the

dining on the move!

curtain on some of their favourite dishes, sharing the techniques and tricks that make

Delicious dinner supplied by our caterer

them work. Grab a spot, bring your appetite, and get ready to cook alongside some of St.

Coaches are air conditioned and L.L.B.O. licensed

Thomas’s most talented chefs.

Location: Port Stanley Terminal Rail

Location: Horton Farmers’ Market 10 Manitoba Street, St. Thomas

Port Stanley, Ontario

Mystical & Magical Vendor Show September 19, 2026

Downtown Oktoberfest September 19, 2026

Join in on a fun, mystical, and magical event with

The St. Thomas Downtown Development

various creative vendors and local makers!

Board is rolling out a great time for the whole family to celebrate Oktoberfest!

Location: Columbus Club 265 Wellington Street, St. Thomas, ON

With seasonal activities for the family, live music, downtown shopping, beer garden, food vendors, free train rides and more you’re bound to say “Cheers” to a good time! Location: Downtown St. Thomas St. Thomas, ON

Page 20 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Featured Small Business

Welcome to the Team

The Grind Club

Morgan Bolton Sales & Marketing Manager

The Grind Club is a boutique athletic, weight loss and fitness facility. Coaching HIIT, dynamic cardio and weight training. Our multi-sport IQ impact screen for athletes. Home of the FORGE weight loss system.

• I am married • I have a German Shepherd named Bella • I enjoy playing basketball and driving motor bikes

Location: 801 Talbot Street, St. Thomas Visit: thegrindclub.ca

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 21

Careers Doug Tarry Homes has earned a national reputation for crafting award-winning, energy-efficient homes. As a forward-thinking organization, we’re constantly pushing the boundaries of high-performance sustainability in the industry. To continue our growth and success, we’re seeking individuals who share our passion for sustainability and innovation to join our workforce. When you become part of the Doug Tarry Homes team, you’ll enjoy competitive compensation packages that include bonuses, health and dental benefits, a wellness spending account, and opportunities for professional development. We believe in investing in our employees and supporting their growth. Explore the exciting job opportunities we have available below, or visit our website for more detailed information. If you’re ready to be part of a dynamic team that’s at the forefront of sustainability and energy efficiency, apply today by sending your application to careers@dougtarryhomes.com. Your future with Doug Tarry Homes awaits!

Development Manager HVAC Designer Estimator Land Development Coordinator Human Resources Generalist Marketing & HVAC Services Administrator Scheduling Coordinator Graphenstone Sales Rep Visit our website for more information on these job opportunities. Page 22 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Community Partner DIAMOND PAINTING & WALL FINISHES LTD. London & St. Thomas, ON

Phone: (519) 709-8065 Visit: www.diamondpainters.ca contact@diamondpainters.ca

Based in London and St. Thomas, Ontario, Diamond Painting & Wall Finishes Ltd. is dedicated to transforming spaces with precision, quality, and a keen eye for detail. We take pride in providing our clients with beautiful, lasting finishes and reliable, friendly service. Our skilled team specializes in residential and commercial painting, custom wall finishes, thin brick walls, Stuki (Venetian plaster), and mortar walls, working closely with you to bring your vision to life with the finest craftsmanship and materials. Our company is committed to maintaining the highest standards and providing exceptional customer service in every project. From wallpaper removal and priming to unique wall treatments and custom colour consultations, we bring expertise and passion to each job, ensuring a seamless experience and premium results. Diamond Painting & Wall Finishes Ltd. is here to create vibrant, luxurious spaces with unparalleled quality and attention to detail.

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 23

Page 24 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Home Tight

My name is Jonah Birch, and I’ve recently started my new career at Home Tight as a Technician! I was born and raised in St. Thomas and take great pride in my community. I’ve worked at DTL for over 3 years now and am excited to pursue this new opportunity with Home Tight. In my free time I like to listen to music, spend time with friends and play rec league softball.

Warm regards,

the Home Tight team

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 25

Page 26 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Designers Corner VAULTED COVERED AREA

Many people think that because a covered area is located at the back of the house, its design isn’t as important. That’s why the most common choice is a simple hip roof. But did you know your covered area can become one of the most beautiful features of your home? At Doug Tarry Homes, we offer more than just one covered area style. Today, we’d like to introduce the Vaulted Covered Area. A design that adds character, elegance, and a more open feel to your outdoor living space. The vaulted ceiling created by the gable roof makes the area feel larger and brighter, while giving you a beautiful view of your backyard. It also allows for different soffit finish options, helping you create a look that perfectly complements your home’s style. A covered area isn’t just a place to enjoy the outdoors; it’s an extension of your home. With the right design, it can add charm, architectural interest, and a space you’ll love spending time in for years to come.

the Home Designer Team

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 27

Customer Care Greetings from the DTL Warranty Team. This month we look at a commonly overlooked item. And that is to inspect and clean your home’s venting covers and pipes. Take a look at the vent pipes outside your home and make sure there is nothing obstructing their breathability. There should be clearance around the pipes from plants, objects, or even temporarily stored items. Make sure the debris screens are clear and not damaged, and pipes are in good shape with no cracks. It is also a good idea to inspect your dryer vent pipe to make sure it is clear from any lint that may have built up. If there is a buildup in the dryer vent pipe, many duct cleaning companies can do a proper cleaning to make sure your dryer can breathe during normal operation. A well-maintained home is a happy home, and a happy home will provide years of joy to you and your family. Warm regards,

the Customer Care Team

Page 28 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Page 30 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 31

Good afternoon, all. Welcome to the 90 for 90 LifeARK™ groundbreaking ceremony. This project is in support of the final piece to the puzzle for our Tiny Hope community with the YWCA. Tiny Hope began as a dream I had in 2018 while fixing roofs down in Puerto Rico, after Hurricane Maria. My vision was to try and address the need to deliver a deeply affordable rental project for our community that could also be best in class high-performance housing. This is towards fulfilling my belief that safe, affordable housing is a basic human right. I wanted to partner with the YWCA specifically because they provide their client tenants with programming to help them improve their life situation. I was able to convince the team at the YWCA to be my partner in the project as the ultimate owner of Tiny Hope. I owe Lindsay and the whole YWCA team a thank you for entertaining my vision for this project. Fast forward to last year and our Tarry family gathering. Aunt Iris was there with several other members of the Tarry clan, and she was peppering me with questions about Tiny Hope. I finally asked her: “Aunt Iris, I’m honoured by you asking me these questions, but why are you so interested in Tiny Hope?” “Well, Dougie, back in 1968, when I was the President of the YWCA, we faced a choice. Either amalgamate with the YMCA or stay independent.” I thought that perhaps today, if you will indulge me, I’d like to share Aunt Iris’s memory of this time.

Page 32 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Dear Dougie, I cannot tell you how thrilled I am that you are going to honor my days at the Y. It was a very active time, and I will try and relate the influence it had on me. In the early sixties, I was invited to join the Board of Directors by Mrs. Trevathick, who was the president at that time. I was given a tour and was impressed by the residence. The girls were young, many coming in from the farming community, many starting their first jobs. We also took in girls who were having trouble at home. The residence provided a safe and homelike environment. The residents got all their meals as well. Breakfast consisted of toast, cereal and juice which each girl prepared herself. They got a boxed lunch and dinner in the dining room in the evening. When I joined, the dining room had just been redecorated with new colonial furniture. It was a pleasant cozy room with a large table in the middle reserved for our residence girls. I believe our cook’s name was Mrs. Beatty, and she provided healthy wholesome food. Mrs. Beatty also took in outside orders for her tarts and pies which were prepared in tin pie plates. She relied on the honor system to return the pie plate. I got more and more involved with the Y and in 1968, I took on the presidency. Many things happened during my term. The first thing that I remember is that Helen Bradley, who had been the Executive Director for many years, retired. We were faced with finding her replacement. We contacted the National Office and were given a couple of names for consideration. Going from Mrs. Bradley who was very much underpaid to a career woman was really going to stretch the budget. On top of the higher salary, this lady wanted a Pension Plan. I don’t think anyone on the Board had even heard of such a thing. I remember going home and asking your Uncle John what he knew about pension plans and he said very little, but he did give me the name of an investor who came and talked to us on the subject. This was a period of change. There was criticism that the Y should take out the Christian in its name because it was discriminatory. This did not affect us at the local level as it was more focused on the National organization. The thing that did affect us was this whole movement of amalgamation of the two Ys. I was very much opposed to this change. When I was a teenager, George Walker was the Executive Director at the YMCA, and your mother was his secretary. She got me a part-time job looking after the main desk after school and on weekends. When this idea of amalgamation came up, I could see no comparison between the two organizations. The YM was focused on male fitness, and their residence took in men of all ages offering no supervision. If we go back to the origin of the YWCA, we go back to 1855 when a hostel for young

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 33

women on their way to the Crimea was established. Our focus should always be supporting women and if amalgamation took place, our cause would be lost by the larger organization. If I remember correctly the motion passed unanimously not to amalgamate. Another event that happened during my term as president is that the Y inherited the Sifton estate. This was a lovely gift to the Y. Among the contents of the house was a Victoria Cross which was awarded to Sergeant Ellis Sifton for his outstanding bravery in 1917. The Board felt that the Cross should be displayed but we had no safe facility to do this. We then contacted the local museum, and it was sent there to be on display. I have since learned that the original cross is in safekeeping and that a copy is on display. If I were to make the decision today of where it should go, I would suggest the Canadian War Museum. Sergeant Ellis was not just a local hero but a national hero and it should be on display for all Canadians. My final involvement was in 1972 when we launched a fundraising campaign. Our objective was to refurnish our residence rooms. We considered a fundraiser but did not want to lose 15% of the funds raised as their fee. I thought it would be nice to have a woman in charge and a couple of names were suggested. We were absolutely thrilled when Marianne Barrie agreed to head the campaign. This was a very successful time. The women all took on certain campaign tasks, heading up teams to approach various corporations, business connections, etc. and the final door to door canvass focusing mostly on people who had used the Y. I took on the task of Office Manager which was a very busy role once the campaign got underway. There were the deposits to the bank, receipts to the donors as well as investing some of the money raised. I think of all the involvement I have experienced during my life, working with this great team of women stands out as the best. Before I left St Thomas, Marianne hosted a lovely supper at her mother’s house where they presented me with various gifts as well as a key to the city. I think that my recollection is accurate, however, there is no one around who can challenge it. Love, Aunt ‘I’

Page 34 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

So, you see, the only reason we were able to do Tiny Hope, to realize a dream that I had, was because of a decision my Aunt Iris made in 1968. I was 4. And that is why we are now gathered here today, for the official groundbreaking for the 90 for 90 LifeARK™.

What is 90 for 90? This home will be built and sold as a fundraiser for the Program House at Tiny Hope. Our goal is to raise at least $90K, in support of the Tiny Hope Program House, in honour of my Aunt Iris turning 90 this year. While Aunt Iris was unable to make the trip down for today, we are joined by her grandson Chris, and her great grand daughters Gabriella and Harriette. Girls, you should be very proud of your great grandmother. We are very thankful for the opportunity to honour her efforts with the YWCA all those years ago. Today could not have happened without her leadership then. As I mentioned this is also a LifeARK™. This all-electric home is being designed and built to come off grid during an extreme weather event and be able to provide the life support system for the home and the occupants over an extended period. This is our fourth LifeARK™, and our first that is all-electric. We have learned from each one as we build towards making LifeARK™-ready our baseline building standard for Doug Tarry Homes. The recent fire smoke here in Ontario and all the extreme weather events would show us that the need for resilient construction is becoming more urgent by the day. But enough talk. It is time to turn some dirt.

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 35

Page 36 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

Recipe of the Month Buffalo Chicken Lasagna INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon canola oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1-1/2 pounds ground chicken

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 small onion, chopped

9 lasagna noodles

1 celery rib, finely chopped

1 carton (15 ounces) ricotta cheese

1 large carrot, grated

1-3/4 cups crumbled blue cheese, divided

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup minced Italian flat-leaf parsley

1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 bottle (12 ounces) Buffalo wing sauce

3 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella

1/2 cup water

cheese

1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS

1. In a Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken, onion, celery and carrot; 2 minutes longer. Stir in tomatoes, wing sauce, water, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 1 hour. 2. Meanwhile, cook noodles according to package directions; drain. In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup blue cheese, parsley and egg. Preheat oven to 350°. 3. Spread 1-1/2 cups sauce into a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Layer with 3 noodles, 1-1/2 cups sauce, 2/3 cup ricotta mixture, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 2/3 cup cheddar cheese and 1/3 cup blue cheese. Repeat layers twice. 4. Bake, covered, 20 minutes. Uncover; bake until bubbly and cheese is melted, 20-25 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 37

Recipe courtesy of Taste of Home

cook and stir until meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender. Add garlic; cook

DISCOVER THE DOUG TARRY DIFFERENCE IN ONE OF THESE COMMUNITIES

Page 38 | SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

At home or on your phone, go to dougtarryhomes.com

51 White Tail Path, Eagle Ridge

Thank you Thank you for following along with us this month. If you have any questions regarding our available lots or Quick Possession Homes, contact one of our New Home Sales Consultants. Until next month...

PO Box 20059

519-851-7386

RPO Edward

sdennis@dougtarryhomes.com

St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4

SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER | Page 39