Jan provided a brief history of Hoselton Studio. A 50 year old company started as a retirement hobby by her father Gord and uncle in the late 1960's. They create sculptures from recycled aluminum.

 

Last year Jan sold the property in Colborne, but not the company. There were a number of incidents that occurred including a fire that led Jan to believe it was time to make a change. To Jan, it was primarily about he product and the people.

 

It took a couple years to sell the property, but when it happened, it went fast. She only had 12 weeks to clean things out. A priority was the staff, her people, so she spent a lot of time and effort to help them secure new positions. She herself and the company's future were uncertain, but she wanted some time away, a vacation.

 

In her inquiries to find buyers for the equipment and new employment for the staff, she talked to Research Castings out of Trenton. They are world renowned for dinosaur exhibits. They had poured bronze before. It turned out they were interested in the equipment, staff and in the Hoselton Company. They are allowing Jan to to sales and marketing, her dream job.

 

Jan was able to take some time off late last year, then in January they began setting up the equipment. The pandemic shut them down for 10 weeks, but they are finally set up and approved by Ministry inspectors.

 

Rotary has been a part of Jan's life. Her dad was President of the Colborne Club when the Brighton club was started. Jan has pondered how service clubs can raise funds, and based on her knowledge and experience, seasonal programs, Brighton's past success with Tilley hats, she thinks we can find success with a seasonal ornament, Canadian made and high quality.

 

She provided some ideas / examples of Hoselton and Rotary successes. From Hoselton, they created a 'tree' series several years ago. She suggested we could leverage local businesses to help sell.

 

She suggested we form a sub-committee to work with her to develop an ornament and marketing strategy. Something customized for Brighton Rotary / the community. Something with a story, has meaning.

 

 

Rotarian Clay thanked Jan for her presentation and initiative.