WHG NEWSLETTER
THE OFFICIAL QUARTERLY COMPANY NEWSLETTER OF WESTMONT HOSPITALITY GROUP CANADA
MESSAGE FROM THE SR. VP OF OPERATIONS SALIM MUKADAM
Dear Westmont Canada Family,
As we close out another incredible year, we want to take a moment to reflect on everything we’ve achieved together. Each of you plays a vital role in our success, and it’s your hard work, dedication, and passion that continue to drive us forward Thank you for making this year one of the best yet!
Celebrating Our Culture | This year, we saw our team’s incredible spirit and enthusiasm come to life through a variety of activities and initiatives. From We Care Day, Employee Empowerment Exchange Week to Cross-Culture Connections, Employee Appreciation Week, International Housekeeping Week and countless community and fundraising initiatives; you’ve proven that our culture isn’t just something we talk about it’s something we live every day. Your engagement and energy during these moments have made our workplace not only productive but also fun, collaborative, and inspiring. Thank you for bringing your authentic selves to work and for fostering a community where everyone feels valued.
Making a Difference in Our Communities | Social responsibility has been a cornerstone of our company, and this year was no exception. Thanks to your efforts, our hotels have made a tangible impact on the communities we call home. Whether it was volunteering at local shelters, organizing food and clothing drives, or hosting fundraising events, you have all shown what it means to give back. These initiatives don’t just help those in need they also remind us of the power of collective action. Together, we’ve demonstrated that hospitality goes beyond our guests; it extends to everyone we have the privilege of serving
Focusing on Our Guests | Our unwavering focus on our guests continues to drive our success. This year, we achieved great results, and it’s all thanks to the exceptional experiences you create every day. From the warm welcomes at the front desk to the behindthe-scenes efforts that ensure everything runs smoothly, your commitment to excellence is evident in everything you do. Our guests notice it, too their positive feedback, glowing reviews, and return visits are a testament to your hard work and dedication
As we prepare for the new year, let’s carry forward the energy, passion, and commitment that have defined 2024. There are exciting opportunities and challenges ahead, and we know you’re ready to tackle them with the same drive that has brought us this far. Together, we’ll continue to build a company that’s not just a leader in hospitality but also a place where people love to work and grow.
Warmest wishes for a joyful Christmas and holiday season and a Happy New Year!
As2024comestoaclose,Ifindmyselfreflectingontheincrediblejourneyofournewsletter.With16editionspublishedoverfour years, it brings me immense joy to celebrate this milestone with all of you. Every quarter, as deadlines loomed, I would often think,“Whatcanwepossiblyfeaturenext?Whatfunchallengewillsparkinterestandengagementthistime?”Yet,withoutfail, we always found a way to deliver something that we think has been meaningful. Our newsletter has grown and evolved, becomingasourceofinformation,engagement,andentertainmentforourreaders.
Behindeacheditionliesasignificantinvestmentoftimeandeffort,ensuringeveryissueresonateswithourteam Hatsofftomy partnerincrime,oursupertalentedPublisherinChief,AndreeaWeldonforhersteadfastcommitmentyearafteryear,andtothe newestmemberofourteam,ourCreativeCoordinator,NasraHiredwhosefreshperspectiveandcreativityhasbeenawelcomed blessing.Together,weaimtokeepthingsinspiring,innovative,andenjoyable.
Reflectingonmyowncareer,Icanhardlybelieveit’sbeen32yearssinceIwasfirstintroducedtothehospitalityindustry,with thelast13yearsand9monthsspenthereatWestmont.FrommyearlydaysasanAdministrativeAssistanttomycurrentroleas Regional Human Resources Manager, I’ve always strived to make work life more efficient, pleasant, and meaningful for those aroundme.
ThehospitalityandHRworldshavetaughtmemorethanIcouldhaveimagined.Frommanagingchallengeswithgraceunder pressuretofosteringresilience,empathy,andadaptability,everyexperiencehashelpedshapemeintothepersonIamtoday. Theselessonshaveguidedmeinnurturingakinder,morepositiveworkplaceculture onewherewesupporteachotherand growtogether.
Asweturnthepagetoanewyear,Iencourageallofyoutoshareyourideas,stories,andinspirationssothatWHGNewsletter continues to connect, engage, and inspire. Together, we can ensure that our newsletter remains a vibrant reflection of the
THE CONTENT DIRECTOR
NICOLE FOOTE
Regional Human Resources Manager
An incredible hotel in downtown, where you can eat and enjoy great service. The people are very sweet and helpful, especially the restaurant staff, who are always polite and smiling. It is very easy to get in touch with them. What are you waiting for? You should definitely check out this place!
Holiday Inn Ottawa Dwtn Parliament Hill
SERVICE SCORES
As we approach the end of the fourth quarter of 2024, we are delighted to share that several of our hotels have already exceeded their guest experience score targets, despite the month not yet being completed. This outstanding achievement highlights the continued dedication and exceptional service provided by our teams across all properties. The year-over-year growth seen in many locations further demonstrates the positive impact of our commitment to guest satisfaction. We truly appreciate your dedication and contributions to our success. As we look ahead to the new year, full of challenges, let’s continue with the same determination to keep raising the bar and delivering exceptional experiences for our guests.
SERVICESCORES
HolidayInnOttawa75.2/67.86,YoYgrowth11%
HolidayInnPeterborough-Waterfront74.77/69.02,YoYgrowth8%
ComfortInnBrandfort8.22/7.91,YoYgrowth4%
FourPointsHalifax54.9/54.2,YoYgrowth1%
DeltaRegina63.2/61.4,YoYgrowth3%
SheratonNewfoundland67.1/66.7,YoYgrowth1%
Travelodge5.01/4.62,YoYgrowth8%
ArcTheHotel83.8/80.2,YoYgrowth4%
HiltonWinnipeg89/85.7,YoYgrowth4%
This review is about Cody at the front desk! He’s amazing so friendly, helpful, and good with people! This company is lucky to have him handling their customers. I think he’s the most helpful and friendliest person I’ve interacted with in decades! I hope the managers or head office notice how great of an employee he is and how he makes this hotel look. I had an issue with my room, and he was so quick to help and rectify the problem. I wish I could give him 20 stars! I have nothing but positivity to say about this short stay at Hampton, thanks to his assistance! Hampton Inn Saint John
SERVICE ANNIVERSARIES
Congratulations on reaching these incredible employment milestones! We appreciate all your hard work and dedication!
GM SPOTLIGHT
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself in your role as GM? For the longest time I struggled with new technology and I believed that it was not one of my strengths. I later discovered that patience was needed in learning new systems, etc and since I am naturally an impatient person I made the assumption that learning new technology was just difficult
What’s one skill or trait that you think every successful hotel GM should have? Definitely emotional intelligence is critical in a leadership role You have to understand people’s personalities and what makes them “tick “ . EI has a pivotal role in controlling your own emotions as well as reacting to the ones of others in a non-offensive tone Empathy, recognition and a sense of humour at appropriate times can create an inspiring culture
If you could rename your hotel to match its personality, what would it be? “London’s Favourite, Hotel & Suites” We have a wide variety of guests all coming to London for different reasons, therefore the hotel’s personality has been adaptable like a chameleon in order to satisfy their individual needs This is what hospitality is all about We have already become London’s favourable Hotel.
What’s a piece of advice you often give to team members aspiring to grow in their careers? To have clear goals, believe in themselves and work hard towards achieving them. Also not to be discouraged by setbacks but use them as opportunities to learn and grow
If you had to pick a theme song that plays every time you walk into a room, what would it be?
“I Need a Hero “by Bonnie Tyler. The song has such an energy burst that is motivating and makes you feel alive Contrary to the title we can be our own hero and achieve great tasks and tap into our inner strength
What’s your funniest or most memorable hotel guest interaction? While working at a Sandals all-inclusive resort in Jamaica, I was introduced by a co-worker to a couple of local guests on a “day pass“ that were having dinner and wanted to give me feedback regarding their experience After this initial interaction I coincidentally ran into one of these persons several times over a course of the next few months as the island is small and a romance started to develop. Two years later we got married and have been married now for 14 years The moral of the story “Always talk to guests and listen to their feedback “
BIG WINS
Delta St. John’s Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators
1,180 RN - $375,956 Revenue
Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland
McCarthy’s Party Tour | 808 RN - $295,504 Total Revenue
Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa
Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators
1,025 RN - $270,325 Revenue Totalsbasedontop5piecesof
114,674 RN / $2,423,419
2,979RN / $564,845
Regional General Manager
The Park Hotel London & Comfort Inn Brantford
YANNIS PARAVALOS
Hill Harper
THIS OR THAT: FOR THE KIDDOS
SHORTBREAD COOKIES
Courtesy of Comfort Inn Brantford
A holiday favourite! So incredibly delicious with a wonderfully flaky and crumbly texture, shockingly easy to make and utterly buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
INGREDIENTS
5 cups cake and pastry flour pinch of salt
1-1 1/3 cups of golden yellow sugar
1lb salted butter at room temp
PREPARATION
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt and sugar, ensuring any lumps of sugar are blended in with the flour.
2. Add the butter and mix by hand until the dough is smooth and can be removed from the bowl cleanly. If dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour.
CHRISTMAS BROWNIE TREES
Prep & Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes I
INGREDIENTS
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus more for greasing the pans
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Servings: 16
1 teaspoon fine salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Sixteen 1 1/2" pieces candy cane
White and gold sanding sugar and small non-pareil candy-covered chocolates, for decorating American Buttercream Frosting
3. On a flat surface, knead the dough with the heel of your hand 20 to 30 times until the dough is completely blended and smooth.
4. Press the dough into an ungreased 10x15" pan; roll the mixture until it is an even thickness in the pan, about 1/2" thick. With a fork, prick the dough in rows 1/2" apart over the entire pan.
5. Bake in the oven at 275F for 1 hour or just until light golden-brown. If the shortbread is too pale, bake for another 10 minutes.
6. When baked, remove from the oven. While the shortbread is still hot, slice it into the desire size. When cooled, shortbread becomes difficult to cut.
PREPARATION
1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Butter the bottom and sides of two 8" round cake pans. Cut two 8" circles out of parchment and line the bottoms of the cake pans.
2 Stir together the butter, granulated sugar, vanilla and eggs in a medium bowl
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt and baking powder. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips and divide the batter between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops. Bake until the brownies begin to gain a crust around the edges, pull away from the edge and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 35 to 40 min
3. Let the brownies cool fully in the pans on cooling racks, about 1 hour. Cut each circle into 8 equal triangles with a knife. Use a small offset spatula or pie server to lift each triangle out of the pan.
4. To assemble: Using the tip of a paring knife or a skewer, poke a small hole along the bottom edge of each brownie Insert a candy cane "trunk" into each hole
5. Fill the piping bag with the frosting and cut 1/4" off the tip. Using a zig-zag motion, pipe the frosting from the base to the tip of each tree. Decorate the trees with the sanding sugars and candy-covered chocolate, as desired.
EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION | 2024-Q4 WHG SUPERSTARS
SHUCHAN
RoomAttendant
Every quarter we recognize those employees who stood out for delivering exemplary hospitality, going above and beyond and being integral to the success of our company. Each employee will receive $100 in Bucketlist points and certificate of recognition for their hard work.
OLEKSIISUSLA
ArcTheHotelOttawa
DAISYFLORES
RoomAttendant HamptonSaintJohn
JOBIETEE
GuestServicesAgent
BestWesternPlusWinnipeg
BRYANCUMMINS
BanquetSupervisor
HiltonWinnipegAirport
AMRITPALSINGH
RoomAttendant
HolidayInnLethbridge
RoomAttendant
ComfortInnBrantford
AccountingClerk
HiltonWhistlerResort&Spa
ULIANABLAHITKA
LaundryAttendant
HolidayInnOttawaDPH
NURAIBRAHIM
LaundryAttendant
DeltaRegina
SIGNORINABILLOSO
RoomAttendant
HolidayInnWinnipeg
LOUANNEPEEPLES
RestaurantServer
HolidayInnPeterborough
CHARMAINEMANVEL
GuestServicesAgent
SheratonNewfoundland
SONYAVINNICOMBE
RestaurantServer
DeltaSt.Johns
DENIZSERT
RoomAttendant
NICOLEALBORNOZ
Houseperson/RoomAttendant
FourPointsbySheratonHalifax
ZSUZSUANNAFULOPNE-DZIBOR
RoomAttendant
HolidayInnEdmontonSouth
HIEXMedicineHat
SAMUELYORKE
MaintenanceTechnician
TheParkHotelLondon
Successful and unsuccessful people do not vary greatly in their abilities. They vary in their desires to reach their potential.
John Maxwell
VICTORMATOS
GuestServicesAgent
TravelodgeVancouverAirport
JULIABAEK
Hospitality is almost impossible to teach. It’s about hiring the right people.
Danny Meyer
PROMOTIONS
VLADABILOHUROVA
SalesCoordinator
HolidayInnEdmonton
CORYWRIGHT FrontOffice/ResManager HiltonWhistler
CHOPPYCHEN
Manager-in-Training,Rooms HiltonWhistler
LINAKARPOVA
Exec.MeetingManager HiltonWhistler
ANNABELLEHAYNES Tour&TravelSalesManager HiltonWhistler
DANIELLECAVANAUGH BarManager FourPointsHalifax
MOIBRAHIM GuestServicesManager FourPointsHalifax
JOSSELYNHUACONROS
AsstRoomsDiv.Manag HiltonWhistler
WENDYBACAS HousekeepingManager ARCThe.HotelOttawa
Holiday Inn Peterborough is my home away from home. The staff is incredible. Shout out to Thomas, Sara, Niha, Gargi, and Tammy, who seems to clean the room I stay in most of the time—she’s amazing. The entire staff throughout the building is always smiling and goes above and beyond to make your arrival and entire stay fantastic. Every stay has been amazing. The rooms are clean and extremely comfortable. I give this hotel a big thumbs up!
Holiday Inn Peterborough Waterfront
WE CARE DAY
November
29, 2024
SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER!
Last year, Westmont generously matched the funds raised from the WHG Corporate Office’s 50/50 draw, enabling us to present a cheque for $1,000. In addition, we proudly donated 174 pounds of essential grocery items.
This year, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Westmont for once again matching the funds raised through our 50/50 fundraiser, totaling $1,025. Instead of contributing additional essential grocery items this year, we chose to make an in-kind donation of $520, allowing the food bank to purchase the specific items they need most. Altogether, thanks to your participation and Westmont’s incredible generosity, we proudly contributed a cheque for total of $1,545 to Food Banks Mississauga. We are committed to making this an annual fundraising initiative for such a deserving cause.
FROM FOOD BANKS MISSISSAUGA
Food Banks Mississauga is the leading food security organization in Mississauga. They lead a network of 60+ agency members, including neighbourhood food banks, pantries, cupboards and meal and snack programs, working together to realize a food-secure Mississauga. Through their network, they provide healthy and appropriate food for over 9 million meals each year to neighbours facing food insecurity across Mississauga. The Mississauga Food Bank is now Food Banks Mississauga! While our name and branding have changed to reflect how our work has evolved, how we support neighbours facing food insecurity has not changed. We’re still doing the same critical work we’ve always done, helping neighbours get the food and support they need!
The City of Mississauga has declared food insecurity an emergency, cognizing that it's a long-term issue that affects many residents. The city ys that food bank usage is higher than the provincial average and that the ue is not just a Mississauga problem.
cording to a recent report by Food Banks Mississauga, the city of 716,000 ople has the fastest-growing rate food bank usage in Ontario with 1 in 13 sidents, or eight per cent of the population, having visited one between ne 2023 and May 2024. In 2019, 1 in 37 Mississauga residents accessed a od bank.
ERE ARE SOME STATISTICS ABOUT FOOD INSECURITY IN ISSISSAUGA:
od bank usage: In the year from June 2023 to May 2024, 1 in 13 ssissauga residents, or 8%, visited a food bank. This is a 58% increase from e previous year and a 120% increase from 2021.
Children: 15,754 children visited a food bank, which is a 42% increase from the previous year.
Income support programs: 25% of clients are on provincial income support programs, including Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program. Employment: 16% of clients are employed.
THANK YOU FOR CARING!
The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails.
John C Maxwell
WE WANT YOU ON OUR TEAM!
WE ARE (ALWAYS) HIRING! Scan the QR code with your smartphone to visit our CAREERS CENTRE for our current position openings. Our personnel mission is to build one of the finest employee cultures in the hospitality world through great benefits, unique rewards and recognition programs, attentive training, and supportive work environments.
WELCOME TO THE WORLD!
IRHAM | Arif Istiak, Delta Regina
MANAGEMENT NEW HIRES
F&BOutletsManager
RITCHARDLEE SalesManager HolidayInnLethbridge CHASLEYTURNER
HiltonWhistler
MARYGORDON SalesManager FourPointsHalifax
We stayed at The Arc from November 15th to 16th. Hassan, the concierge (I believe), was the highlight of our stay. What a delight! He has excellent customer service, a great sense of humor, and is so polite and pleasant. He was incredibly helpful as well. I had no cash on me, and we were behind schedule for leaving. I wanted to leave him a cash tip because he left a lasting impression on me and my family. I feel like you don’t often see service or personality like his these days. I’ll be back in Ottawa and will make a special stop to deliver that tip! Thank you, Hassan! Great job representing The Arc Hotel!
ARC The.Hotel Ottawa
HOUSEKEEPING HACK |
Removing Carpet Stains with a Hot Iron
Got a stubborn carpet stain? Try this professional trick straight from our experts! This simple yet effective method works wonders for many common stains, leaving your carpet looking fresh and clean!
WALEEDBAKARMAN
ExecutiveHousekeeper
DeltaRegina
HOTEL NEWFOUNDLAND
1
Place a damp cloth over the stain
2
Gently press the iron onto the cloth for a few seconds, letting the heat lift the stain into the fabric.
Housekeeping Tip For Better Sleep
3
Prioritize a clean and healthy bedroom for a truly restorative sleep. Did you know you shed around 500 million skin cells a day—even while you slumber? Those skin cells are a feast for dust mites and other pesky allergens, which can wreak havoc on your sleep quality and overall health. To keep your sleep environment pristine and healthy, follow these tips:
Wash your sheets weekly
Vacuum your mattres
Air out your sheets du
KUDOS CORNER
Chef Gord has been honoured with the Community Service Award by the City of Winnipeg!! This prestigious recognition highlights Chef’s dedication not only to culinary excellence but also to giving back to the community.
Repeat this step as needed until the stain is gone.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
DELTA REGINA
Newo-Yotina Friendship Centre: Prepared and served over 80 meals
Community Fridge: The team gathered up some extras and shared them with the Community Fridge Coronation Park School: We supplied a classroom at the school with afternoon snacks, some snacks for all 305 students in the school and some much-needed nonperishable food items for their weekend program.
Canadian Blood Services: The team donated blood at the Blood Drive
Regina Food Bank: The team came together and gathered food for the food bank for over the holiday season.
Warm Clothing Drive: The team donated warm clothing, socks, mitts and toques to share with members of our community in need
HOLIDAY INN PETERBOROUGH
Youth Bowling League of Peterborough: We were delighted to support the Youth Bowling League of Peterborough in their fundraising efforts. By contributing to their cause, we aim to help this incredible program continue providing opportunities for youth to learn, grow, and build lasting friendships through sport.
Kawartha Downs Wedding Expo: In November, our hotel proudly participated in the Kawartha Downs Wedding Expo to showcase our hotel and restaurant as premier venues for weddings and events Representing our property at the expo were Elisa Mallette and Stanley from our Sales Department, who engaged with attendees and highlighted the exceptional services and offerings we provide for special occasions
HILTON WINNIPEG
Community Cheer Board: Our team dropped off Christmas gifts
Agape Table: Team Hilton Winnipeg spent another inspiring day at Agape Table
Koats for Kids: 21 bags for Koats for Kids - another 190 pounds of Koats for our community!! Over 1000 pounds of coats since kick off
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
HOLIDAY INN LETHBRIDGE
Lethbridge Senior Citizen Organization: In October, w proudly hosted a fundraising event for the Lethbridge Senio Citizen Organization. As part of the initiative, we opened ou pool to the public for a special "Splash for a Cause" event an are delighted to donate $500 to support this meaningf cause.
Angel Tree Program: Since 1992, the Lethbridge Fami Services Angel Tree Christmas campaign's goal has been t ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience th joy of Christmas. They collect new, unwrapped toy throughout the year, and distribute those toys in Christma gift bundles to children and youth in the Lethbridge are whose families need help during the holidays. Holiday In Lethbridge is a Proud partner with them for this year We a supporting Five Families for this precious Christmas time.
DELTA ST. JOHN’S
Jimmy Pratt Outreach Centre: Our Monthly contribution to the Jimmy Pratt Outreach Centre, where we served 85 clients on October 25th and 60 clients on November 29th
HAMPTON SAINT JOHN
Street Teams: We are proud to donate Soap Kits and Food to Street Teams who go around the community and support the homeless population through the week. Movement Dance Complex: We are proud to support this dance group for New Brunswick dancers needing to travel to compete. Assisting our youth and giving them a positive outlet is vital for progressive development Navy League & Sea Cadets: We are proud to sponsor fundraising efforts for the Sea Cadets band who perform at Christmas parade, Remembrance Day and veteran functions. We love to support activities that keep the city’s youth occupied with development and organization.
Coverdale Shelter For Women: Our team has nominated the shelter to receive linens, food and toiletries donated by the hotel. Our support for the local shelters is important for the existence and service they provide. We will ensure supplies are alternated to them over the next year.
Rose House: Our team also supports Rose House, a transitional housing building for women who have experienced homelessness.
1 C a l e n
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Orthodox Christmas
Maintenance Appreciation Day
International Day of Education
Lunar New Year
WHG Hot Chocolate Day
January Birthday Bash
FEBRUARY
Groundhog Day
Food & Beverage Appreciation Day
Valentine’s Day
Family Day (BC, AB, SK, ON, NB)
February Birthday Bash
WHG Wellness Wednesday
International Women’s Day
Daylight Savings Time
March Break Begins
Front Desk Appreciation Day
St. Patrick’s Day
WHG Employee Empowerment Week
March Birthday Bash
2025
Leadership is providing inspiration and vision, then developing and empowering others to achieve this vision.
Marshall Goldsmith
RED WINE SANGRIA WITH A WINTER TWIST
INGREDIENTS
1 bottle of full-bodied red wine
1/4 cup brandy
2 tbsp orange liqueur
1 orange, thinly sliced
1 apple, thinly sliced
PREPARATION
1 cinnamon stick
2 cloves
1 tbsp honey or sugar for sweetness)
Sparkling water (for topping)
1. Combine wine, brandy, orange liqueur, orange slices, apple slices, cinnamon stick, and cloves in a large pitcher
2. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavour).
3. Before serving, taste and add honey or sugar if desired.
4. Serve over ice and top with a splash of sparkling water for effervescence
THIS OR THAT: FOR THE ADULTS
TOMAHAWK STEAK WITH CHIMICHURRI
Bring restaurant-quality flair to your table with this bold and delicious steak perfect for the holidays! This incredible dish was crafted by the talented team at Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, made by Sous Chef Josh Hook. We can’t wait to see what else the Whistler team has in store as they gear up for the relaunch of Cinnamon Bear!
INGREDIENTS
STEAK
1 tomahawk steak (approx 25lb/1kg or 1 ¾ to 2“ thick)
2-3 garlic cloves
A few sprigs of fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil
Paper towel and string (to cushion the bone tip)
PREPARE THE SOUS VIDE
Fill a large water-proof container with water and set the sous vide to your desired temperature: Rare: 120°F/49°C
Medium Rare: 131°F/55°C
Medium: 135°F/57°C
PREPARE THE STEAK
Wrap a folded paper towel around the sharp tip of the tomahawk bone and secure it with string to protect the vacuum bag
Place the steak in a vacuum-seal bag with garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and olive oil Seal the bag.
COOK THE STEAK
Submerge the vacuum-sealed steak into the sous vide water bath
Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours at your selected temperature
FINISH THE STEAK
Remove the steak from the water bath and open the vacuum bag.
Pat the steak dry with a clean paper towel.
CHIMICHURII
2 cup flat-leaf parsley
¾ cup cilantro
3 cloves garlic
1 shallot
1 Fresno pepper
3 tsp dried oregano
1/2 cup canola blend oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
½ tsp smoked paprika
Sear the steak on all sides in a hot skillet or frying pan until a crust forms.
SERVE THE STEAK
Let the steak rest for 5-10 min. Remove the bone, slice the steak, and serve on a plate or wooden board
Pair with chimichurri sauce for added flavour.
CELEBRATIONS AROUND OUR HOTELS
CELEBRATIONS AROUND OUR HOTELS
TOP 5 HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS ACROSS CANADA
Whether you’re looking for fun holiday activities or want to share festive events with your hotel guests, discover the magic of the season with these must-see events happening across the country! From dazzling light displays to lively markets and timeless traditions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
OTTAWA CHRISTMAS MARKET
The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne Park will run from November 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025. During the holiday season, the market will feature festive decorations, live performances, a skating rink, unique vendors, and activities for all ages.
When: Late November – December 24, 2024
Where: Aberdeen Square, Lansdowne Park Vancouver, BC
Ottawa,
CANYON LIGHTS
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Capilano Suspension Bridge adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. This enchanting display will take your holiday spirit to new heights as you stroll through illuminated treetops and bridges.
When: November 22, 2024 – January 19, 2025
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, North Vancouver
TOP 5 HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS ACROSS C
CANDY CANE LANE
Walk or drive through Edmonton’s famous Candy Cane Lane, a neighborhood that transforms into a festive wonderland with elaborate holiday decorations. Perfect for family outings and spreading cheer!
When: Mid-December – Early January 2025
Where: 148 Street, Edmonton
VICTORIA PARK WINTER WONDERLAND
London, ON
Victoria Park comes alive with thousands of sparkling lights and holiday displays, creating a picturesque setting for a winter evening stroll.
When: Early December 2024 – Early January 2025
Where: Victoria Park, London
NIKKA YUKO JAPANESE GARDEN'S WINTER LIGHT FESTIVAL
Experience the serene garden illuminated with festive lights.
When: November 29 2024 – February 2025
Where: Mayor Magrath Drive S, Lethbridge
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Holiday Safety Tips
DECORATING & PARTY SAFETY TIPS
Use Safe Lights: Check all holiday lights for frayed wires, broken bulbs, or loose connections before using them. Opt for energy-efficient LED lights that stay cool to the touch
Avoid Overloading Outlets: Plugging too many decorations into a single outlet can cause overheating or electrical fires. Use power strips with surge protectors.
Stable Set-ups: When hanging decorations or using ladders, ensure they're on a stable surface. Have someone hold the base of the ladder for added security.
Flame-Free Alternatives: Choose battery-operated candles instead of traditional ones to avoid fire hazards.
Drink Responsibly: If alcohol is served, encourage moderation and provide non-alcoholic options for designated drivers.
TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS
Plan Ahead: If traveling by car, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with snow tires, an emergency kit, and a full tank of gas
Weather Awareness: Check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out Avoid unnecessary travel in severe weather.
Secure Your Home: If you're leaving for an extended period, use timers for lights and notify a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property.
CYBERSECURITY HOLIDAY TIPS
Beware of Phishing Scams: Holiday shopping emails and deals can sometimes be traps. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing personal information.
Shop Securely: Use trusted websites and avoid public Wi-Fi when entering payment information. Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
FIRE PREVENTION TIPS
Christmas Trees: Water real trees regularly to prevent them from drying out, which can be a fire hazard Keep them away from heat sources like fireplaces and radiators.
Check Smoke Alarms: Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before hosting any gatherings. Turn Off Lights: Always turn off holiday lights and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
WISHING YOU A SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON!
WHG 2024
HOLIDAY PLAYLIST
Get into the festive spirit with the WHG Holiday Playlist! A perfect blend of holiday favorites and timeless everyday classics that will bring joy and cheer! Whether you’re decking the halls or relaxing with family, it’s the perfect holiday soundtrack.
Scan the QR code for direct access to the WHG playlist!
Let’s come together to create a tree full of creativity and joy! Whether you’re a crafting pro or just looking for some creative fun, this activity is for everyone!
Whether you’re adding your ornament to the Christmas tree or simply making one to display, we’d love to see your work! Share your handmade creations on Bucketlist or email them to hr@whg.com to showcase your craft!
The Spirit of Christmas
Beneath the twinkle of winter’s light,
A warmth arises, pure and bright.
It’s not just gifts or festive cheer,
But the bonds we’ve built throughout the year. Each challenge faced, each goal we’ve met, Are threads in a fabric we won’t forget.
Together we’ve grown, through thick and thin, A family of colleagues, where all fit in.
As snowflakes dance and bells ring clear, Let’s pause to reflect on what we hold dear. Kindness shared, the dreams we’ve spun, The victories earned, and the work well done.
So this Christmas season, let’s celebrate, The trust we’ve built and the futures we create.
May joy and peace fill every heart, And light the way for a fresh new start.
From the WHG Newsletter team, with gratitude and cheer, Merry Christmas to all, and a bright New Year!
A N A D A n e w s l e t t e r