This past summer CAA North & East Ontario (CAANEO) ran a prize draw for 10 staycation giveaways. Why a staycation? Not only is it luxury within a stone's throw of your home, but it also promotes the local economy in a post-pandemic era.

CAANEO asked you to nominate a friend, family member, frontline worker, or another deserving individual in need of a staycation. The nominations were entered along with stories, and they all had something in common: hard work, determination, and diligence.

The prize consisted of a $200 CAA Travel voucher to be used at a CAA Store, or by phone through the CAA Travel Services Call Centre. The voucher was credited towards a luxurious stay at a participating Marriott Bonvoy and other hotel partners in Ontario.

To add the icing on the cake, winners also took home a $150 Ultimate Dining Gift Card to choose from any of the 14 participating restaurant brands! That includes Milestones, Montana’s, Kelsey’s, Swiss Chalet and so much more.

Congratulations to the winners!

Nominator Amanda O’Neil nominated her frontline working sister Molly O’Neil, saying…

“My sister is a frontline worker (nurse). She has worked endlessly throughout the pandemic, even taking on extra shifts in other units to fill in voids. She also has 2 young kids at home. Her work ethic is again being proven and continued as she is taking on as many shifts as possible due to her husband being on strike. She could use a break, a staycation would be perfect - she could continue working but enjoy a night away and know her work is appreciated. Auntie would even help out and watch the kids!”

Marco Campagna nominated hard working student and animal lover, Rachel Campagna.

“She is working full time and has been studying full time for the last three years all the while taking in a rescue dog and 3 cats. She hasn't taken a real vacation in that time!”

Caroline McDonald nominated her husband, Gary McDonald, and had this touching story to share...

“I would love to nominate my husband who on February 5th underwent a Bone Marrow Transplant.  This meant leaving our Northern Ontario (Sudbury) home, family and friends and moving to Ottawa for 4.5 months. We are grateful to be back home now but it has been a grueling recovery for him and still a long recovery road ahead. We also still have monthly trips back to Ottawa for follow up tests and check-ups. So, an Ontario vacation would be absolutely perfect and appreciated!”

Linda Wright showed her appreciation with a nomination for her good friend, Judy Wilson.

“This friend has worked throughout the pandemic and deserves a holiday.”

Rhonda Molly nominated Reg Molly who works tirelessly, always getting the job done.

“A true frontline worker...he works everyday through the pandemic to keep the long-distance trucks on the roads delivering everyone's needs. Even when he tested positive and got sick himself through his workplace he did his quarantine without complaining and when recovered went right back to the daily grind serving long distance drivers at the dealership he works at. Without the truck drivers where would everything be now?”

Kevin Etherington wanted to thank Allison Koosees with a nomination for her endless efforts with elderly clients, family, and friends.

“Allison is a hardworking and dedicated PSW who strives to provide the best quality care to elderly clients. She has a warm, welcoming personality and deserves a staycation for being so committed to her work, especially doing it all while expecting a child. Thank you Allison and all other frontline healthcare workers for your endless efforts during this pandemic!”

Carmen VanKoppen nominated a hardworking student in need of a break; Nicole VanKoppen.

“I am nominating Nicole VanKoppen because she is a mature student who hasn't gone on a vacation since she is in University and is always studying and doesn't have the money to travel anywhere. She could really use a break to have a mini vacation to enjoy herself to get away from her studies. Thank you for the chance…”

Kelly James nominated someone that she could not be more proud of; Hanna Guenoun.

“Hanna has been working non-stop since March of 2020. She's been deemed essential and even while having a medical condition that puts her at increased risk she still worked tirelessly, in the beginning sometimes 24hrs at a time. She repatriated countless Canadians from countries all over the world and has been instrumental in the procurement and rollout of the COVID vaccines. I have barely been able to see her due to lockdowns and her hectic work schedule. She not only deserves but needs a holiday. I'm so proud to know her and call her my friend.”

Allison Duhamel-Desloges nominated Dwayne Desloges, who puts family and hard work first.

“He has not had time off since January 2019. The pandemic has impacted his single employee business greatly, and he has not qualified for any sort of government subsidy or support. He has been trying to keep food on the table and a roof over head for the family and he deserves a break.”

Heather Mitchell nominated her soon to be turning 50-years-young and good friend; Tobin Hess.

“Tobin moved here from the US to marry one of my best friends. They bonded over love of travel. This past year saw all their vacations cancelled, and Tobin could not go home to see family. They are both now working from home and Tobin just found out that he will be working from home forever. This would be a great surprise and welcome break from all the stress of 2020 and part of 2021. Also, he is turning 50, so this would be the best gift ever!”