BY SIMONE J. SMITH

After a long drive, feeling hot, sticky, and tired, we arrived at the enchanting St. Lucia Resort. The moment we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by beautiful, smiling faces and handed cool, refreshing towels. The warmth of the staff was matched only by the refreshing sweetness of the rum punch they offered us, setting the tone for our stay perfectly.

Check-in was swift and effortless, and before we knew it, we were on a shuttle, whisked away to our luxurious guestroom. Our spacious Ocean View Guestroom, surrounded by the beautiful Caribbean landscape, was a sight to behold. The scenic ocean views from our room were breathtaking. A perfect getaway from the everyday. Located on the hillside, our residential-style accommodations provide a peaceful retreat, with a private terrace overlooking the ocean, offering the ultimate Caribbean escape.

Welcome to paradise. Welcome Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort…

Tucked away on a lush hillside along the cobalt Caribbean Sea, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is a luxurious retreat that evokes the beauty and charm of a picturesque Mediterranean village. This stunning island escape beckons with secluded villas, top-tier amenities, and the warm hospitality of St. Lucia.

As a premium all-inclusive resort, they pride themselves on exceeding their guests’ expectations. It is the perfect resort for: families, honeymooners, and couples. Hillside sanctuaries feature: spacious accommodations, sparkling swimming pools, a variety of motorized sports, and world-class dining experiences. Kids and teens can enjoy pizza parties, coconut bowling, and dance lessons. Pampering anyone? Indulge in a spa treatment, celebrate a special occasion, or simply unwind in our in-water hammocks.

I had an opportunity to sit down with Arlien Dyer, Director of Sales and Marketing, and Lindon Lovell, General Manager at Windjammer Landing Resorts. During out chat, they shared with me exactly why Windjammer Resorts is the perfect luxury experience.

“Welcome to our sanctuary nestled in the heart of St. Lucia,” began Arlien Dyer enthusiastically. “Here at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, we redefine hospitality with genuine warmth and an unpretentious vibe that invites you to unwind and indulge in the extraordinary. Our dedicated team of thoughtful staff ensures that every moment exceeds your expectations, from the impeccable service to the luxurious amenities that await you at every turn.”

“Here, you can indulge your senses in a supreme culinary journey, where each dish is crafted with passion and creativity, offering a taste of the local flavors amidst stunning panoramic views that take your breath away. Whether you’re here for a serene retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Windjammer promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of luxury and tranquility.”

“Our resort,” she continued, “is leading the way in creating unforgettable experiences. Here at Windjammer, innovation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s woven into everything we do. From cutting-edge amenities to personalized service, we’re dedicated to redefining hospitality.”

“At the heart of our mission are our guests,” chimed in Lindon Lovell. “Whether you’re: here with family, celebrating a honeymoon, planning a destination wedding, or enjoying an annual group getaway, we are passionate about ensuring every moment spent with us is extraordinary.”

“Our commitment goes beyond providing exceptional accommodations and breathtaking views. It’s about crafting memories that will last a lifetime. Innovation drives us forward, but our guests inspire us every day. Their stories, smiles, and joy are what motivates us to continually raise the bar. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or celebration, we promise an experience that exceeds your expectations.”

Overall, the experience was highly enjoyable, but to truly capture the essence of St. Lucia, I would have loved to see them incorporating more elements that reflect the island’s rich culture and vibe. Integrating local music genres like soca and reggae would have added an authentic auditory dimension, transporting participants directly to the Caribbean atmosphere.

Regarding culinary experiences, featuring more authentic St. Lucian dishes in the menu would have further enriched the experience. Highlighting local ingredients and traditional recipes could evoke a true sense of place, making guests feel they’ve embarked on a culinary journey through St. Lucia.

In essence, while the current offering was enjoyable, enhancing these elements would elevate the authenticity of the experience, ensuring guests feel truly immersed in the distinct charm of St. Lucia, rather than feeling like they’re back home.

During my time with Arlien and Lindon, the one aspect of our discussion that stuck out is the fact that no experience is cookie cutter at Windjammer. For those seeking a romantic escape, their Premium All-Inclusive Ultimate Romance Package is perfect. Enjoy intimate moments with your loved one and indulge in gourmet dining at their five unique restaurants.

If you prefer a more laid-back retreat, their Simply Luxurious Bed and Breakfast option offers island calm and simple indulgence. Wake up in paradise and savor a delicious breakfast before deciding how to spend your day.

For families looking to create lasting memories, they offer the Stay & Play. This June package, featuring a limited-time $150 USD resort credit.

No matter your preference, Windjammer Landing ensures a memorable Caribbean experience. Book your getaway now and secure your spot in paradise. Discover why St. Lucia is the ultimate destination for romance, family adventures, and unforgettable moments in 2024.

Your ultimate Caribbean escape awaits!

BY PAUL JUNOR

The ruling by William Kaplan, Chair of the Arbitration Board on Wednesday, on May 29^th, 2024, with respect to compensation for teachers and occasional teachers belonging to ETFO was welcoming news for its members. It was over a year and half ago that these members of the ETFO approved a central agreement for the negotiations that concluded in December 2023. An essential part of this ratification was mandatory arbitration for compensation (salary and daily OT rate). The hearing was held on April 17^th, 2024, and the ruling was finalized with the announcement of the outcome in a press release by ETFO.

Details of the ruling by the Arbitration Board was also announced by Barbara Patrocnio in a briefing by QP. It notes, “The 11.25% increase over four years becomes an 11.73% increase when compounded over the first years. Breaking down the numbers, this means increases of 3% for 2022 – 2023, 3% for 2023 -2024, 2.75% for 2024 – 2025 and 2.5% for 2025 – 2026.”

The press release by ETFO notes that their decision was based on the acknowledgement of the expertise and qualifications of OT’s which ensures that their daily OT rates will be altered to reflect the increased baseline average rate starting September 1^st, 2024. In addition, the press release specifies that, “All ETFO locals with daily OT rates lower than the baseline average will increase to the new average rate plus receive the 2.75 percent awarded for the 2024 – 2025 school year. Any local with a daily OT rate higher than the new baseline average rate will continue at that rate, plus the 2.75% awarded for 2024 – 2025. All daily OT rates will then increase by an additional 2.5% in 2025 – 2026.”

The cumulative effect of these yearly increases over the course of the agreement will result in the highest pay increase in more than a decade for these ETFO members. For the OT locals, the press release states that “ETFO expects the compounded compensation increase for daily OT’s moving to the new baseline average rate to be in the range of 14% to 15%. The compensation increase for all ETFO OT locals overall should be above 13%.”

Karen Brown, President of ETFO states, “This compensation award should have been achieved at the bargaining table. Instead of coming together to reach a fair and reasonable agreement, the Ford government was intent on devaluing our members who are already facing: increased violence, insufficient support for students with special needs, heavy workloads, and burnout. This award highlights Ford’s government failure to recognize and fairly compensate ETFO members.”

President Brown notes further, “Teachers and OTs are professionals with specialized skills developed through rigorous training and continuous professional development. Just compensation honours this expertise and helps ensure dedicated, qualified individuals feel valued and remain in the teaching profession.”

The results of the arbitration decision is good news for all those who have fought strongly against the provincial government imposition of low wage increases that circumvent the collective bargaining process. Hopefully, this will ensure that in the future the PC-led government of Doug Ford will respect the integrity of the collective bargaining rights and ensure that public sector works are equitable remunerated especially in these times of high inflation, grocery prices, energy costs and rental expenses.

BY PAUL JUNOR

Ontario has changed graduation requirements for students with an emphasis on a back-to-basics agenda since it was elected in 2019. The government has revamped the elementary Math curriculum as well as introduced a de-streamed Grade nine math curriculum with an emphasis on coding and financial literacy. In addition, it is mandated that students obtain one technological credit commencing fall of 2024. This, the province believes, will open doors for Ontario students to pursue careers in the skilled trades as they work towards their diploma.

Details about the new graduation requirements were described in a press release issued on May 30^th, 2024. It lists some of changes as:

• A new financial literacy graduation requirement to ensure students exit Ontario school system with both literacy and practical financial skills
• Consulting on important life skills and the return of home economics education
• Ensuring new teachers hold basic competency in math. Teacher applicants to the Ontario College of Teachers must pass the Math Proficiency Test beginning in February 2025
• For the first time in 13 years, a wholesale revitalization of guidance and career education to support students’ understanding of local labour market needs and pathways to good careers.
• Up to $14 million in 2024-2025 to launch career coaching in Grade 9 and 10 students and to explore new opportunities into STEM and skilled trades
• Return of the student exit survey to benchmark success and garner feedback on the impact of reforms with an emphasis on guidance

Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s former Education Minister made the announcement Thursday morning at the Toronto Stock Exchange. He states, “It’s critical that students know how to create and manage a budget to save for: a home, for their retirement, and how to protect themselves from financial fraud. Too many parents and employers and students themselves tell me that young people are graduating without sufficient financial literacy, or those basic life skills.”

Minister Lecce elaborates in the press release issued on May 29^th, 2024. “As we go back-to-basics in the classroom, we will introduce Ontario’s first literacy graduation requirement, along with the return of modernized home economics education. By elevating life skills in the classroom, along with better career education and higher math standards on education, we are setting up every student for life-long success. Our bottom line: ensuring students graduate with practical learning that leads to better jobs and bigger paychecks.”

MPP Chandra Pasma of Ottawa West-Nepean, who is the NDP Education critic, mentioned that there were other things that the government should be focused on such as the chronic teacher shortage. She states, “I’m not sure I would have started with a test for financial literacy.”

Karen Littlewood, President of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation, responded that there have been many changes that the government has introduced, “But do you have the bodies to deliver the course.” She notes, “We have fewer and fewer specialized teachers in the system; I don’t know that they are going to be able to live up to the promises that they’re making.” She elaborates that there was no consultation between OSSTF and the government before the announcement.

Cathy Abraham, President of the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association is concerned about the pace of the changes. She states, “There have been a lot of changes to the curriculum, but when you start changing curriculum quickly and often, all we ask is that there’s time to ensure that the changes that this government wants are done well, because it doesn’t serve anybody if they’re not.”