In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

☀️ Today’s Weather in Whitby 

 💉 Viral Tsunami: Ontario Braces for COVID-19 and Influenza Surge

 🦘 Kangaroo Caper Unveils Regulatory Gaps: Ontario Launches Probe into Nathan's Escape

🚔 Behind the Wheel and Under the Influence: Durham's Intensive RIDE Nets 13 Impaired Drivers

 🚨 Crash and Capture: Durham Police Apprehend Impaired Driver with Hidden Firearm

 🚓 Whitby's Teen Tangle: Five Face Charges After Alleged Stolen Vehicle Spree

 🎵 Whitby's Melodic Maestro: Aaron John Triumphs as Emerging Artist of the Year

 🎨 Crafting Memories: Frame By Design Transforms Ordinary Items into Artistic Treasures

 🏀 Ontario Tech Triumph: Ridgebacks Outclass Guelph Gryphons with 87-63 Victory

 🏒 Heartbreak in Guelph: Ridgebacks' Defensive Battle Ends with 1-0 Road Loss

⛹️ Durham Dominance: Lords Basketball Caps 2023 with Seven-Game Win Streak

 📅 Whitby Events

Viral Tsunami: Ontario Braces for COVID-19 and Influenza Surge

Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore, issues a stark warning as COVID-19 and influenza gain momentum in the province, poised to peak during the holiday season. With low vaccination rates, especially among seniors, Moore urges swift action and emphasizes the critical window for immunization. Despite the escalating threat, he opts for a strategy of "risk communication" over immediate public health measures.

Kangaroo Caper Unveils Regulatory Gaps: Ontario Launches Probe into Nathan's Escape

Nathan, the wayward Kangroo in Oshawa has been found safely thanks to Durham Regional Police. Ontario authorities launch an investigation into the escape of a kangaroo named Nathan in Oshawa. The marsupial's unexpected romp from Toronto to Quebec during a pit stop at the Oshawa Zoo has prompted concerns about the adequacy of wildlife transportation regulations. Solicitor General Michael Kerzner underscores the importance of understanding the circumstances surrounding Nathan's escape, while advocacy groups highlight major gaps in existing laws regarding captive wildlife.

Behind the Wheel and Under the Influence: Durham's Intensive RIDE Nets 13 Impaired Drivers

Durham Police's Restive RIDE program gains traction in its second week, culminating in the scrutiny of over 1,874 vehicles and charges against 13 drivers for impaired driving. The statistics showcase an intensified effort, with notable increases in various enforcement categories. An arresting incident involving an impaired driver on the wrong side of the 407 underscores the community's role in fostering road safety, as emphasized by Durham Police's call to report suspected impaired drivers promptly.

Crash and Capture: Durham Police Apprehend Impaired Driver with

Hidden Firearm

Durham police respond to a crash in Oshawa, leading to the arrest of a suspected impaired driver who is subsequently found to be in possession of a concealed firearm. Nicholas Rampersaud, 24, is now facing multiple charges, including impaired operation and firearm-related offenses. Authorities encourage the community to provide any additional information, highlighting the collaborative effort in maintaining public safety. Durham Police are urging anyone with pertinent information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in maintaining public safety. Information can be shared by contacting the police at 1-888-579-1520, extension 309, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Whitby's Teen Tangle: Five Face Charges After Alleged Stolen

Vehicle Spree

Five teenagers find themselves facing charges after an alleged attempt to steal a vehicle in Whitby. Durham police, responding to a call, track the group's movements and ultimately apprehend them after a pursuit that involves both ground and air units. The teens, charged with possessing property obtained by crime over $5,000, include residents from Whitby and Ajax. Authorities urge the community to provide any additional information that may aid in the investigation. Durham Police are urging anyone with pertinent information about the incident to come forward, underscoring the significance of community involvement in aiding investigations. Information can be shared by contacting the police at 1-888-579-1520, extension 2259, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Whitby's Melodic Maestro:

Aaron John Triumphs as Emerging Artist of the Year

Whitby musician Aaron John receives the Emerging Artist or Band of the Year Award at the 2023 OMAs for his unique musical style, blending K-pop, pop, rock, and jazz. Beyond accolades, John actively supports the local music scene through open mic nights at Cork and Bean in Oshawa. With a forthcoming EP, "Alive Today," and a commitment to musical education via FunJAMentals, John's influence extends beyond his performances, connecting him with talented individuals seeking to master the piano.

Crafting Memories: Frame By Design Transforms Ordinary Items into Artistic Treasures

Frame By Design, a well-established downtown business in Whitby, has undergone a transition under the ownership of Giovanni and Jennifer since April 2022. Despite its longstanding presence, the shop represents a new endeavor for the couple, driven by their shared love for fine art and craftsmanship. Giovanni dedicated a year to immersing himself in the framing industry, learning every aspect of the craft. The existing staff, including longtime members Chris and the recently retired Brian, remained, ensuring a seamless transition. The team, now enhanced with new members like Stormy, Ali, and Caroline, possesses an artistic eye and deep framing expertise.

As a specialty shop, Frame By Design excels in framing diverse items, from diplomas and certificates to unique requests like framing a golf ball and scorecard or preserving sports memorabilia. Specializing in framing hockey jerseys, the shop prioritizes preservation, using high-quality, acid-free materials and conservation glass. Each framed item is treated as a work of art, reflecting the team's passion for creating lasting memories. Beyond framing, Frame By Design offers expert photo and poster printing services, along with a variety of in-stock frames and art for sale.

The business, situated in the close-knit Whitby community, values the supportive atmosphere among neighboring businesses. Jennifer sees potential in Downtown Whitby's walkable area and expresses excitement about its upward trajectory.

Frame By Design invites customers to participate in their creative process, offering free consultations for framing needs.

Ontario Tech Triumph: Ridgebacks Outclass Guelph Gryphons with 87-63 Victory

Ontario Tech's men's basketball team notches their seventh win of the year with a commanding 87-63 victory over the Guelph Gryphons. Led by standout performances, including Zubair Seyed's 20 points, the Ridgebacks exhibit a total team effort with multiple players reaching double digits. Currently seated second in the OUA East division, the Ridgebacks look forward to an exciting new year, with a highly anticipated matchup against the Carleton Ravens on January 5.

Heartbreak in Guelph: Ridgebacks' Defensive Battle Ends with

1-0 Road Loss

The Ridgebacks experience a setback with a 1-0 road loss to the Guelph Gryphons, ending their four-game winning streak. Zoe Mcgee's stellar goaltending efforts keep the game scoreless until the final minute when a short-handed goal seals the Gryphons' victory. The Ridgebacks look ahead to the new year, gearing up for a home matchup against the Brock Badgers on January 5, 2024.

Durham Dominance: Lords Basketball Caps 2023 with Seven-Game Win Streak

Durham College's men's basketball team concludes the year with a triumphant 91-84 victory over the Georgian Grizzlies, extending their winning streak to seven games. Standout performances from Julian Hinckson Jr., O'Shane Taylor-Douglas, Jasean Elliott, and Kevin Hamlet contribute to the Lords' success. The team's efficient shooting and prowess in converting turnovers into points highlight their dominant fall season, setting the stage for continued success in 2024.

December 5th

• Autism Ontario Central East - Teen & Adult Art Class with Wildlife Academy - Virtual - 5:00 PM - https://www.autismontario.com/civicrm/event/info?id=8913

December 6th

• Autism Ontario Central East - Teen & Adult Art Class with Wildlife Academy - Virtual - 5:00 PM - https://www.autismontario.com/civicrm/event/info?id=8913

• Charity Trivia Night in support of Sloane’s House Paediatric Respite & Hospice Care Center - Brock Street Brewing Company - 7:00PM - https://www.facebook.com/brockstreetbrewing/posts/743690554463590

December 7th

• The Nutcracker Evening High Tea Premium Experience - York Durham Heritage Railway

• Autism Ontario Central East - Teen & Adult Art Class with Wildlife Academy - Virtual - 5:00 PM - https://www.autismontario.com/civicrm/event/info?id=8913

• Christmas Light Show - Drive thru - Winter Festival - Ajax Downs Racetrack - 6:30PM

• Ben Bankas - Comdian - Yuk Yuks Oshawa - 8:00PM

December 8th

• Candlelight Tours at Lynde House Museum

• Christmas Light Show - Drive thru - Winter Festival - Ajax Downs Racetrack - 6:30PM

December 9th

• Booster Juice Grand Opening Brooklin, ON - 5530 Baldwin Street South

• Christmas Light Show - Drive thru - Winter Festival - Ajax Downs Racetrack - 6:30PM

December 10th

• Christmas Light Show - Drive thru - Winter Festival - Ajax Downs Racetrack - 6:30PM

December 13th

• The Nutcracker Evening High Tea Premium Experience - York Durham Heritage Railway

December 14th

• The Nutcracker Evening High Tea Premium Experience - York Durham Heritage Railway

Coming Soon!