The Story of Three Men and Their Babies

The Story of Three Men and Their Babies - A Non-Fictional Short Story By Rob MacArthur

The recent passing of Scott Crawford and Bruce Hyde has left me grappling with a profound sense of loss. We were more than just friends—we were brothers, bound by the shared experience of raising our children as custodial fathers. Now, with my closest companions gone, I feel a deep responsibility to tell our story, to honor the legacy they left behind. I would be remiss if I didn't also mention my friend Gary Melko, who passed in the early 2000's. He was the OG of single custodial dads that I became friends with the first time I became a single custodial dad back in the eighties. Dads becoming the single custodial parent was a rarity back in the 80's and 90's. I was blessed to be able to find these men that helped me through my journey.

A Brotherhood Forged in Fatherhood

Our connection began with a common bond: single custodial fatherhood, a role that brought us together during some of the most challenging times of our lives. I was the youngest of our trio, raising four boys: Josh, Ben, Zach, and Luke. Scott, the next oldest, was navigating life as a full-time dad to his two daughters, Ashley and Melody, while also sharing custody of his son Christopher. Bruce, the eldest, was raising three daughters: Jennifer, Julie, and Joanne. Together, we raised ten children, and today, our family has grown to include twenty-two grandchildren—a testament to the love, dedication, and sacrifices we made as fathers.

Back in the mid-1990s, our unique situation as single custodial fathers garnered attention, leading to a feature in Durham Parent, a local publication. At that time, I was juggling the demands of full custody for three of my boys and shared custody of the youngest. I often spoke with a mix of pride and exhaustion about the demands of being a full-time dad. “When people hear ‘single dad,’ they think I’m just the weekend guy,” I would say. “But I’m the one packing lunches, helping with homework, and making sure they get to soccer practice on time.”

Scott Crawford, the newest single custodial dad of our trio, was still finding his footing in his new role. Scott and I crossed paths in Ajax, Ontario, where we both worked, and our shared experiences and growing friendship eventually led to a remarkable decision: to combine our families and share a home for a few years. Together, we raised our six children under one roof, a chapter filled with laughter, chaos, and countless lessons learned. We often joked that our time living together would make a great situation comedy, filled with enough material to entertain and inspire.

Living together strengthened the bond between Scott and me. We found solace in sharing the workload and the emotional toll of being full-time custodial dads. “We weren’t just supporting each other; we were surviving together,” I would often recall. “It wasn’t easy, but having someone who understood what you were going through made all the difference.”

Bruce Hyde, the veteran of our group, brought a wealth of experience, having raised his daughters on his own since they were little. His calm demeanor and pragmatic approach earned him our respect. Bruce and I initially met through the One Parent Family Association, where we bonded over our shared experiences as single parents. His business acumen and passion for sports led us to spend countless hours discussing business ideas, playing tennis and volleyball, and even attempting white water rafting.

A Life Beyond Parenting

Our connection to each other extended beyond our roles as fathers. We shared passions that deepened our bond and brought us even closer together. Scott and I had a connection through music and politics. We would spend many nights playing our guitars and singing, often writing our own songs. Scott was also a councillor in the town of Ajax for over twenty years, and I would help him with his campaigns. Our mutual love of music and shared political interests created a special bond between us.

Bruce and I connected through business and sports. Bruce had a great business mind, and we would often talk about business ideas, always bouncing thoughts off each other. We also spent many times playing tennis, volleyball, and billiards, challenging each other in friendly competition. These activities, along with our shared experiences as fathers, solidified a friendship that stood the test of time.

We also loved to go out together singing karaoke. Sometimes we would sing as individuals, sometimes in duets, and sometimes as a trio. There were many times that all three of us were not available to go out, so two of us would go instead. Scott was a classic rocker who loved to croon. Bruce was definitely a crooner. I was a country boy who also liked the oldies. These karaoke nights were a source of great joy and camaraderie for us, a chance to unwind and share our love of music.

The Challenges and Triumphs of Single Fatherhood

As single custodial fathers, we faced unique challenges, especially when it came to relationships. Interestingly, whenever one of us was in a good relationship, the others would hear from that person less frequently. It was an unspoken but understood part of our friendship. We were fine with this arrangement because the happiness of our friends was more important than constant contact. “We knew that if one of us was happy and busy with a partner, it was a good thing,” I would say. “We were just glad to see each other thriving, even if it meant less frequent check-ins.”

Scott often voiced a belief that statistically, only two out of the three of us could end up in good relationships. He felt that the demands and stresses of our lives would make lasting, loving partnerships a challenge. Ironically, however, when all three of us were alive, we each enjoyed strong, loving, and caring relationships with our partners.

We often discussed the impact our custody roles had on our children, particularly the absence of a mother figure. The conversation often turned serious when we talked about this concern, which loomed large over us all. Bruce, ever the realist, would acknowledge the difficulty of this situation, while Scott and I would share our own worries. None of us received child support, a decision rooted in a mix of pride and fear. We worried that asking for financial help might prompt our ex-wives to reconsider the custody arrangements, a risk we couldn’t afford to take.

But despite the challenges, the sleepless nights, and the sacrifices to our personal lives and careers, none of us regretted our decision to raise our children. We were fathers first and foremost, and the bond we forged with our kids was something we cherished deeply.

A Legacy of Friendship and Fatherhood

For years, we phoned or messaged each other not only to say Happy Fathers Day but also to wish each other a Happy Mothers Day—a nod to the dual roles we had taken on in our children’s lives. These gestures of acknowledgment and appreciation were just one more way we stayed connected and supported one another through the highs and lows of single fatherhood.

In time, each of us found love and companionship again. I met Lorraine, whose own children, Jamie and TJ, became part of my growing family. Our blended household thrived, and I finally felt the balance and partnership I had long sought. Bruce married Angela, a woman who embraced his daughters as her own and brought stability and joy to their lives. And Scott found his soulmate in Tiffany, who added her own children, Josh and Anne, to their family. Together, they created a loving, supportive environment where all the children thrived.

The Final Chapters

Recently, the news that changed everything struck. Both Bruce and Scott passed away, leaving me as the last remaining member of our brotherhood. The loss was devastating, not only for me but for the children we had all raised together. The memories of our shared struggles and unwavering dedication to our kids now take on an even deeper significance.

Although Scott and I would message each other regularly, one of the last times I saw Scott was when my mother passed in August of 2023, and he and our good friend Derek Sharp came to her celebration of life in Kingston, Ontario. The very last time I saw him was at a fantasy hockey league draft in the fall of 2023. Scott passed peacefully in his sleep just before his 64th birthday in March 2024.

Bruce and I also messaged each other regularly, but we hadn’t seen each other since before COVID. I found out he was diagnosed with lung cancer in May of 2024, and we messaged a lot more after that. Since he lived almost three hours away, seeing each other was difficult to arrange. Bruce was aggressively fighting the cancer, but it just wasn’t in the cards. His last few weeks of life were spent heavily sedated. Somehow, though, two days before he passed, he sent me this message: “The clock is running out faster than I anticipated. Life unfortunately didn’t let us have more time together. I’ve valued your friendship, brother. Hold on to memories and party on. Win CGT! I’m in palliative care for end of life now. I’m zoned out most of the time on strong meds...” I sent him a reply with my goodbye, and his wife Angela read it to him. Bruce passed peacefully with his family by his side in July of 2024.

The Lasting Impact of Our Lives

The lasting impact of our lives extends beyond our immediate families. In Bruce's memory, the Hyde family is having a bench with a plaque in his honor placed at Centennial Park in Pelham, Ontario. It will be situated outside the pickleball court, a fitting tribute to the man who was instrumental in founding the pickleball masters division locally.

Meanwhile, Scott’s family and I are working to establish a lasting tribute to Scott as well. Despite facing challenges with council and resident support, we are determined to have a park named after Scott in the ward of Ajax where he served as a councillor for over twenty years and spent countless hours as a dedicated parent. This park will stand as a testament to Scott’s deep connection with his community and his enduring commitment to his family

As I continue to navigate the challenges of life, I carry with me the lessons and love of my two closest friends. I remain grateful for the time we spent together, for the bond we formed, and for the unbreakable connection we shared through fatherhood, music, politics, sports, and friendship. During COVID I took Life Coaching Certification Course and have decided to use those skills with my experiences to help others deal with separation, divorce, single parenthood, and blended families.

Though they are no longer with me, the legacy of Scott Crawford and Bruce Hyde lives on through our children, our grandchildren, and the lasting memories we created together.

Our story is one of resilience, brotherhood, and the unwavering love of fathers for their children. And in that, there is a comfort that endures, even in the face of loss.

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This story is copyright of Robert MacArthur and the families of Scott Crawford and Bruce Hyde.

If you enjoyed this story, please share it.

For more information, click here to email Rob MacArthur

Why Senior "A" Hockey is Important for Canada

Hockey is more than just a sport in Canada—it's a cornerstone of the nation's identity. From the professional ranks of the NHL to backyard rinks, hockey weaves together communities and generations. However, amidst the focus on youth development and professional leagues, the importance of senior hockey leagues, cannot be overstated. These leagues play a crucial role in preserving the spirit of the game, fostering community bonds, and offering competitive opportunities for seasoned players. 

Senior hockey leagues provide a platform for those who have aged out of junior and university-level hockey but still have a passion for the sport. These players often have decades of experience and a deep love for hockey that they are eager to continue expressing. By offering a structured, competitive environment, senior leagues ensure that this passion is not lost, allowing players to continue enjoying the game well into their later years.

In many towns, senior hockey teams are central to the community. These teams often serve as a local point of pride and bring together residents from all walks of life. Games are community events, where fans gather to cheer on familiar faces and socialize with neighbors. This sense of community is particularly important in smaller towns and rural areas, where senior hockey may be one of the few organized activities that draws people together regularly. 

Furthermore, these leagues often serve as a bridge between generations. Young fans watch their local heroes play and are inspired to pick up the sport themselves, while older fans reminisce about their own playing days or support family members on the ice. The intergenerational connections fostered by senior hockey help to sustain the sport's popularity and reinforce its cultural significance in Canada.

Senior hockey offers a level of competition that is still challenging and rewarding, even for players who may not have pursued professional careers. Many senior league players are former junior, collegiate, or even professional players who still possess a high level of skill and fitness. For these athletes, senior leagues provide an opportunity to continue competing at a high level, maintain physical fitness, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being part of a team.

This competitive environment also helps to maintain the quality of hockey in Canada. Senior leagues often attract talented players who have extensive knowledge of the game, and their continued involvement helps to raise the overall standard of play. Moreover, these experienced players often serve as mentors and role models for younger players in the community, helping to pass on their knowledge and skills to the next generation.

Senior hockey leagues are deeply rooted in the history of the sport in Canada. Many of these leagues and teams have been around for decades, carrying with them a rich tradition that connects the past with the present. For instance, the Allan Cup, awarded to the national senior amateur men's hockey champions, has been contested since 1909 and remains one of the oldest and most prestigious trophies in Canadian sports.

By continuing to operate and thrive, senior hockey leagues help to preserve this history and keep the sport's traditions alive. They remind us that hockey is not just about the fast-paced excitement of the NHL, but also about the enduring love of the game that exists at all levels of play.

Beyond the cultural and social benefits, senior hockey leagues also have a positive impact on the local economy. Teams draw fans to arenas, which in turn supports local businesses such as restaurants, bars, and shops. Additionally, these leagues often generate employment opportunities, from arena staff to coaches and trainers. In smaller communities, the economic boost from senior hockey can be significant, providing a steady stream of revenue during the hockey season.

A senior hockey league is not just important—it is essential for the continued health and vibrancy of the sport in Canada. These leagues keep the love of hockey alive for players and fans alike, foster strong community ties, provide competitive outlets for seasoned athletes, and honor the rich history of the game. By supporting senior hockey in Canada we ensure that hockey remains a lifelong passion and a unifying force within the fabric of Canadian society.

Rob MacArthur

Read the Ajax News Advertiser article on renaming Cedar Park after Scott Crawford

Click below to read the Ajax News Advertiser article on renaming Cedar Park after Scott Crawford - 

https://www.durhamregion.com/news/scott-crawfords-loved-ones-want-cedar-park-renamed-after-the-late-ajax-councillor/article_72f6d086-feab-5c45-9077-0f7fbd303f24.html

Durham Radio News Article on the Campaign to Rename Cedar Park to Scott Crawford Park In Ajax

Click the link below to read the Durham Radio News article on the campaign by family and friends of long time Ajax resident and Councillor Scott Crawford to have Cedar Park renamed Scott Crawford Park.

https://www.durhamradionews.com/archives/180857

Dealing with Loss at Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect and give thanks. This years Thanksgiving was a bit different for me. It was the first year that my mom has not been here for Thanksgiving.

My mom passed July 26th of this year. She had not been well for a number of years but really went down hill at the beginning of 2023. It is a blessing that she is no longer suffering. I am an only child and she was not only my mom... she was a best friend... drinking buddy... dance partner... dart partner... bingo buddy... partner in humour.

Since she passed it has been my parents anniversary, my birthday,  as well as other birthdays. Just as you think you are getting a handle on the loss, another event that she should be at comes around and puts you right back at square one. I imagine it will get easier as time passes but that feeling of loss will always be a part of my life.

I know how sad it can make me, I can only imagine how my father feels.

Being that it is Thanksgiving, I am thankful that I had her as my mother, that we spent so many years together, and that we were so close. I am also thankful I have so many wonderful memories of her and the times we spent together. But... I will always miss her smile and laugh and hearing her say "I love you Bobby."

Love you to Mom...

Clash for Cancer

A buddy of mine who loves to run wrestling events was asked to look at arranging to raise funds to help Cancer. He came up with "Clash for Cancer" which I think is awesome.

Costs for wrestlers, equipment, staging,  sound, etc will be covered by sponsorships so all monies raised through ticket sales will go towards fighting Cancer.

Being a Cancer survivor who kicked Cancers ass I immediately offered to help.  Do the music... emcee... help with public and media relations... whatever... just maybe not wrestling... unless there is an over 60 division. 

If this sounds like something you would like to get involved in... let me know and I can pass on his information to you.

R.

For the Branches

For the Branch...

Lorraine Davies-Macarthur and I have come up with a promotion that will help out Legions. We call it the For the Branch Promotion and we hope it will entice groups, organizations, associations, non profits, charities, and such to use the Legion to hold their event, dance, party, fundraiser, etc.

We will DJ, do Karaoke, and/or perform as a live duet at their function at a reduced rate for holding it at a Legion. We will also  include emceeing, the use of our sound system for at the event, and help promote the event if asked to.

This offer is for events held at branches in Durham Region, Northumberland, Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Hastings, and Prince Edward Counties.

Subject to availability. Some conditions do apply.

Anyone interested in knowing more can send me a message here or by emailing me at rob@robmac.org.

#legion

#legions

#forthebranch

Me and The Boys - The Babysitting Nurse

Excerpts from the Book "Me and the Boys," that I never did write. Lets call this excerpt "The Babysitting Nurse."

I had just become a new single dad having custody of three boys aged 1, 5 and 6.

At the time, 1988, I was building a successful career in information technology with my second job as systems manager at the Kingston Regional Cancer Centre. Having to raise three boys on my own was going to be a challenge.

My parents were a great help watching the children when they could, but I had to get a babysitter. The job would be seeing the two older boys off to school and watching the youngest one. This would be done during the day while I was at work.

I took an advertisement out stating the position and its responsibilities, as well as the fact I preferred someone who would babysit in my house. It was a six bedroom house in Yarker with a good yard.

There was a number of respondents but one really stood out.

She was a nurse that was working part time. She was getting married soon and wanted to experience watching children. Her references checked out so I hired her.

Things were working out great. She would arrive early, make the boys breakfast, look after the youngest and walk the older two to the bus stop, making sure they got o , and would be there when they were dropped off after school. When I got home she would even have supper ready for when I got home. I couldn't ask for anything more.

One day when I got home she talked to me about a concern she had. The two older boys had climbed up on top of the garage and they would laugh at her and would not come down when she told them to. She was concerned they would fall off and break something. I explained to her boys will be boys, but I would talk to them.

I came home on a Wednesday and she told me that she could not do it anymore. It wasn't what she thought it would be and that she was giving me two weeks notice. I told her that I understood and was sorry to see her go.

I was in my office at work the following Friday. I got a page to come to the front reception desk. When I got there i saw something I will never forget.

There at the front reception was the babysitter holding the youngest, with the two older boys standing by her with devilish grins The babysitters hair was messy and tasselled and the youngest was pulling on it.

When I approached she said "I can't do it, " and handed me the youngest boy and immediately left. For some reason it was all I could do to not break out laughing. I took the rest of the day off and took the boys home.

My search for a babysitter was on again.

I often wonder if she ever got married? If she ever had children? I hope she did because she was a wonderful person and probably would have made a wonderful mother to her children.

I did not mention her name to protect her identity. Okay... I didn't mention her name because I don't remember it. But, I will always will remember her and wish her well.

Happy Mothers Day

So nice to see so many wonderful messages on Mothers Day. All the thoughts,  wishes, prayers , phone calls, to all the wonderful Moms here and who have passed.

I would like to post a special message about one type of Mom... Step Moms... Often critisized and vilified... even by Disney. This may warranted in some cases, but not in this one.

In 1998 Lorraine made the decision to commit to a relationship with a man who was a single father who had full custody of three boys aged 17, 15, and 12 and joint custody of one boy aged 7. Having two children of her own, it was a madhouse of 2 adults and six children. Taking on the responsibility of 4 boys, and quite frankly one single father,  she cared for, nurtured, and at times disciplined this new extended family. Through the tears, arguments,  and laughter she made a house a home.

Although they may never realize or appreciate it, she provided the boys with a stable home, meals, support,  and so many things that they should be thankful for. Taking them places they needed to be, caring for them when they were sick, and just being there when I wasn't. 

The boys never saw her tears of frustration or hurt that she had caused by things they said or did being boys. But i did. Despite it all though, she persevered and continues to be there today after all that time.

These boys are all grown up now with strong relationships and good jobs and are good men largely in part to Lorraine being in their life.

She continued to be a rock through my cancer and continues to be a caring mother and grandmother for all our children and grandchildren,  whether step or not, as well as makes sure I am the same.

At the time of writing this none of my boys have called Lorraine to wish her a Happy Mothers Day, and that's okay, they have their maternal moms that they stay in touch with, which they should.  Being male though, they may not yet realize the importance their step mom played in their lives, and mine. As they get older, I hope they will.

So, on behalf of my boys, Happy Mothers Day Lorraine, and thank you for what you do, have done, and will do. Especially the Disney charades...

I love you...

The Great Reopening in Ontario

February 17th there will be no capacity limits in restaurants and bars. March 1 proof of vaccination will no longer be required to enter and stay in restaurants and bars. There will be a lot of people that will be happy about this. There will be a lot of people that will not. I see some challenges.

There may be patrons that will not go to a restaurant and bar because of this.

There may be staff that dont want to work because of this.

There may be a renewed effort to complain about having to wear a mask at restaurants and bars.

It is my hope that everyone will have patience and understanding in this undertaking so the reopenings will go smoothly and keep moving forward.

Are You Showing Signs of Scout Syndrome?

Symptoms of the Scout Syndrome include saying please and thank you, being kind and helpful to someone, holding a door open for someone, paying for someones drink or food order and many more. Even just smile at someone. No symptom is to small!

We here to much about other viruses spreading that are not good, so lets spread one that is.

If you have a symptom of the Scout Syndrome post a message or video about it using the hash tag #scoutsyndrome. Also feel free to share others posts of Scout Syndrome symptoms.

Really Got the Christmas Spirit This. Year!

I drive transit in Port Hope part time. A young man that is a passenger was telling me how because of the recent covid issues his mom, who is in a wheelchair and lives in Peterborough, had to cancel the family Christmas get together and he had no way to get up to see her and exchange gifts.  He mentioned he hadnt seen her in a year. I offered to take him up after my shift. Yesterday I took him up. The look on his and his mother's face was awesone. I waited in my car while they had a short visit then drove him home. Put me  in the Christmas spirit! Merry Christmas all!

Why Press Releases Are More Important Than Ever

Why Press Releases Are More Important Than Ever

Press releases have changed a lot over the years, especially since businesses have realized the importance of online marketing. But to use a press release effectively, there are some strategies. Here are some of the main reasons press releases have become so important:

Announcing a new product or service. If you want to announce a new product or service, you can draft a press release and immediately get your news found on all major search engines and social media networks by using a press release distribution service. This also enables you to target thousands of journalists.

Improving brand image. Because it has become so easy to publish and distribute a press release, companies can easily send out as many press releases as they want. Publishing more press releases more often is a good way to improve your brand's image.

Images help drive interest. Press releases now include images, videos and other multimedia, which means you can convey your message and news stories in more interesting ways than ever before.

Instant world-wide distribution. Before online press releases had became common, most press releases were sent only to journalists. If not deemed worthy of press mention, they lived in a binder, on someone's desk or in a building lobby. Now a press release can be distributed to millions of people around the world instantly through email and social media.

Expanding public knowledge. By adding links to other Web pages within a press release, companies can direct readers to even more information about what they do.

Viral possibilities. An online press release can go viral if people start sharing it over social media networks, thereby creating a buzz that was never possible with traditional press releases.

Portability and convenience. People can read a press release anywhere on the Web or on their smartphones.

Search engine optimization. By using specific keywords relating to your business, you can optimize your press release so people can easily access your company information through search engine use.

If you would like to learn more, send me a message!

What's Your Story?

 Do you or your organization have a great story? The passion, drive, and ambition that brought it to be? Whether you are just starting or celebrating a milestone, you should consider a media release!

A media release will spread your story and get people to know who you are, why you came to be, and what you do. Media releases are an effective and economical marketing tool.

I can help with...

Release Creation and Design

Release Targeting and Distribution

Release Followup and Promotion

Release Social Integration

Whether you want your release seen locally, regionally, provincially, nationally, or internationally, I can help make that happen.

I have been helping organizations with this for over 20 years.

If interested, send me a message for more information!

Never Give Up

Through the years I have had some really great jobs as a professional career. However, just as things would get going, life would step in. Separation, divorce, single parenthood... twice! I choose raising my kid right and being there for them rather then totally dedicate myself to my professional career and some businesses management did not take kindly to it.. so.. I was bought out or let go...

Then as I was getting back into the swing of things... Cancer hit... another career killed... but... the cancer is gone. Then Covid came right after that. LOL...

I'm sure the universe is trying to send me a message... just not sure what it is....

I will keep trying though to find that ever evasive "forever job." May never find it... but the journey sure is fun and interesting... Especially with my awesome wife Lorraine...

Never give up on your goals my friends... I know I won't!

I Am A Multipotentialite

A Multipotentialite, also known as a polymath, renaissance person, jack of all trades, generalist, scanner and puttylike, is a person with many interests, passions, skills, talents and experience.  I am a Multipotentialite.

Over the years my passions and interests had led me to have education, skill sets and experience in strategic plans, business plans, marketing plans, branding, non profits and charitable organizations,  retail, healthcare, manufacturing, mortgages, technology, finance/accounting, forex trading, cryptocurrency, mediation, private investigation, life coaching, music, stand up comedy, entertainment, event management, web sites, emceeing, lost pets, volunteering, social media, digital marketing, media and public relations and much more.

To some this may seem unfocused or wrong, but the world is realizing that these type of people have an amazing ability. I use mine to help others.  Sometimes as a paying job.  Sometimes as a volunteer or to lend a helping hand.  But the ultimate goal and usual result is that I do help.

If you got a problem, I don't care what it is... I can help! If I can't help, I know someone who can!

There is nothing I can't do... There is nothing I can't learn.

Send me a private message if you would like to see if I can help you!

Ideas for Legions to Raise Funds

While mowing the lawn today I had a thought... well... I have lots of thoughts... but this is one I can share. Legions that are looking to raise funds should think about a few possible events. The first would be Tribute Talent Challenge. Singers would enter as their favourite artist... dead or alive... and dress, act and sing a song of theirs. Their would be a prize for each winner where there was at least two people competing. Elvis... Neil Diamond... Patsy Cline... Johnny Cash.... whomever. There could also be an overall winner for all those competing. Judging could be based on singing, stage presence, overall entertainment value, etc. Include a karaoke screen if you want.. because who cares... its about entertainment and raising funds. Some will use it... some won’t. Make it an event where you charge a fee to enter, as well as admission to watch the event. Have prices for Legion members and non-Legion members. Use the entry fee for the prize money. Would really not be that hard to do and it's just a little bit different then regular Karaoke. Over the years I have used Karaoke as a basis for various entertainment events... The Ajax Legion Karaoke League... Ajax Legion Karaoke Idol... World Karaoke Challenge Federation... Battle of the Sexes... Survivor Karaoke... to name a few... The second is an open mic. Let those that want to come in and do a standup comedy routine. Same concept really. Charge an entry fee and admission fee. It would be a different type of entertainment. You could expand on this and make it a variety show night... any entertainment allowed to enter. Yes I could do the sound and coordination on any of the above, but you may have your favourite entertainer that you would like to support. Just make sure you let me know you are having the event so I can share the info... and maybe enter! Stay well... Rob MacArthur The Multipotentialite #legion #rotary

Respect the Entertainer

 For over twenty years now I have been involved in either entertaining, or coordinating the entertainment, for events around Ontario. A trend I did not like back at the start seems to be getting worse. Entertainers are still constantly being asked to provide their services free for fundraising events.

Although these events and their causes can be very worthwhile, I feel it is an insult and lack of respect to the entertainers. These entertainers such as bands, musicians, solo artist, duets, buskers, magicians, dj’s, and karaoke hosts have spent a lot of time and/or money to become an entertainer. They have everyday living expenses just like everyone else. It seems strange that we ask someone to work for free to help support someone else financially.

When I started coordinating entertainment and production for events, I made it very clear that I would not be involved if they were looking for free entertainment. I would only be involved if there was some sort of budget to pay the entertainers for their time and effort, even if it was just an honourarium to help cover expenses. Most of the time I would coordinate the entertainment, stage and production, even emcee, for free. But, if they wanted us to perform, there would have to be some sort of pay being received. In addition, I usually end up helping with social media, digital marketing, and media and public relations as a bonus.

We have a good rule of thumb when trying to decide to donate our services. If absolutely no company, person, or service is getting paid for their work, product or service at the event, then we would consider doing it for free as well.

Some entertainers will donate their pay back, as we have done in the past. But, that is their decision, not the events. For some entertainers what they do is their full time job. For others it is a side job. Certainly there is an element of passion in what they do, but for most, especially in these times, they need the money to survive. I doubt anyone that has a regular full time job would donate their time or pay cheque to the business they work for, so why are entertainers asked to do it so often?

I do understand that for the organizations holding the events to raise awareness or funds, that budgets can be a challenge as well. Decide on what you can afford and put it out there. At least you are making an offer and the entertainers themselves can make the decision to accept that offer or not. Alternatively, look for sponsors to cover entertainment costs and co-brand them with the entertainment. Many organizations have successfully done this to help cover the costs of entertainment, stage and sound.

In summary, make the effort to offer something for entertainment to show that you respect them and their craft.

If anyone is looking for a duet, full band, DJ, karaoke host, or entertainment coordinator, give me a call. Besides what I do, I have a list a mile long of entertainers.

Rob MacArthur
A Multipotentialite

Fundraising in These Times

 

There are so many organizations looking for donations and funding these days. Whether they be charitable organizations, non-profits, or even special interest groups.

With so many looking for support, you have to stand above the rest... offer something special... interesting... and with some possibility of return. Silent auctions are a good way of doing this. I found a Canadian organization that provides turn key solutions.

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Today's Human Trafficking News in Canada - 02/25/2021

Rotary Action Group Against Slavery(RAGAS) Canada Today's Human Trafficking News in Canada - Please Share!

Schools inconsistent in teaching students about sex trafficking in Canada - https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-schools-inconsistent-in-teaching-students-about-sex-trafficking-in/

Timmins police charge Toronto area man with human trafficking - https://northernontario.ctvnews.ca/timmins-police-charge-toronto-area-man-with-human-trafficking-1.5322168

Rob MacArthur - Canadian Coordinator Rotary Action Group Against Slavery