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Whitby Updates: Legal Clash, Joyful Reunion, Police Crack Down, Extremism Arrests, Musician Unity, Empowering Leaders, Ridgebacks' High-Performance

Whitby Updates: Legal Clash, Joyful Reunion, Police Crack Down, Extremism Arrests, Musician Unity, Empowering Leaders, Ridgebacks' High-Performance

Issue #009

Issue #009 - December 9, 2023

In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

☀️ Today’s Weather in Whitby

🧑🏻‍⚖️ Legal Clash: Intent vs. Aggression in Whitby Assault Case

🐈‍⬛ Microchips and Miracles: Whitby Animal Services Celebrates Joyful Reunion

🚔 Durham Police Crack Down on Oshawa Magic Mushroom Business

🚨 RCMP Arrests Two in Ontario Linked to Far-Right Extremism and Neo-Nazi Activities

🎼 Durham Musicians Unite for Annual Concert to Feed the Need

👩‍👩‍👦‍👦 Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Whitby’s Micro-Grant Program Offers Opportunity for Positive Change

🏫 Ontario Tech Ridgebacks Elevate High-Performance Commitment with New Leadership

📅 Whitby Events

Legal Clash: Intent vs. Aggression in Whitby Assault Case

The fate of Anthony Doiron-Francis, accused in a violent assault in Whitby, will be determined in the new year. He faces charges of attempted murder and aggravated sexual assault from a July 2020 incident that left a 50-year-old woman severely injured. The defense argues Doiron-Francis never intended to kill, portraying his actions as a reaction to being startled while attempting to record the woman. The prosecution contends the sustained violence and attempts to conceal identity demonstrate an intent to kill. The trial concluded on November 29, and Doiron-Francis awaits the judge's verdict on January 19.

Microchips and Miracles: Whitby Animal Services Celebrates Joyful Reunion

Photo Credit: whitby.ca

Whitby Animal Services, a cornerstone of the community, offers vital animal care, education, enforcement, and licensing services. Among their heartwarming achievements is the successful reunion of a Whitby resident with her missing cat after an incredible six years. The cat, identified through a microchip, highlights the importance of this technology in reuniting lost pets. Pet owners are encouraged to schedule microchipping appointments at the Whitby Animal Services Centre or participate in upcoming community microchip clinics. For those unsure about their pet's microchip status, free scans are available at the center. Additionally, the staff seeks donations of towels or blankets to provide comfort to shelter animals during the holiday season.

Durham Police Crack Down on Oshawa Magic Mushroom Business

Just a sudden attempt to express the concept of crime.

Durham police have laid charges against three individuals following a raid on the 'Fun Guyz' magic mushroom business in Oshawa. The initial search yielded cash, psilocybin products, and edibles worth $20,000, leading to the arrest of an employee. Despite this intervention, the business reportedly resumed operations, prompting a second raid resulting in the seizure of items valued at $60,000 and the arrests of the store owner and another employee. Charges include possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking and possession of proceeds obtained by crime (under $5,000). Individuals with pertinent information are encouraged to contact investigators at 1-888-579-1520, extension 1708, or utilize the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) for anonymous tips.

RCMP Arrests Two in Ontario Linked to Far-Right Extremism and Neo-Nazi Activities

This was at the regimental Funeral of Constable John Davidson of the Abbotsford Police Department. November 20th, 2017

Two Ontario men have been arrested by the RCMP for their alleged involvement in far-right extremism and neo-Nazi activities as part of the 'Active Club Canada' group. The individuals, linked to Atomwaffen Division and Hammerskins, face charges related to hate crimes and terrorist group participation. The arrests follow an 18-month investigation, with the RCMP crediting CSIS for intelligence. 'Active Club Canada,' described as white supremacist workout groups, promotes a 'warrior spirit' in anticipation of a race war. The Hammerskins, known for advocating racist rock music, have ties to Atomwaffen Division, a listed terrorist entity in Canada since 2021. Individuals with information on terrorism or suspicious activities are encouraged to contact the RCMP's National Security Information Network at 1-800-420-5805 or their local police service.

Durham Musicians Unite for Annual Concert to Feed the Need

Musicians from across the Durham Region are joining forces for the sixth annual Concert to Feed the Need in Durham at the Biltmore Theatre in Oshawa. The event aims to raise funds for Feed the Need in Durham, responding to the increased demand for emergency food distribution. With food bank use up 53% in the past year, the concert brings together artists to support the community. Concert producer Joe Solway expresses gratitude for the musicians and highlights the power of Rotary clubs in addressing food insecurity. The lineup includes well-known artists such as Kalista Wilson and Cale Crowe. Co-hosted by Jerry Archer, Carolyn Ellis, and Chris Koppin, the concert reflects the community's commitment to helping neighbors in need.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Whitby’s Micro-Grant Program Offers Opportunity for Positive Change

Gaining a deep understanding the problems that customers face is how you build products that provide value and grow. It all starts with a conversation. You have to let go of your assumptions so you can listen with an open mind and understand what’s actually important to them. That way you can build something that makes their life better. Something they actually want to buy.

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Starting Out (ToLSO) micro-grant program, initiated by the Nigerian Canadian for Cultural, Educational, Economic Progress (NCCEEP) and partially funded by the Canadian Service Corp, offers young leaders in Whitby the opportunity to secure micro-grants for their passion-driven projects. Open to individuals aged 15 to 30, ToLSO provides funding up to $5,000 across four pillars: building an inclusive Canada, preserving the environment, promoting civic and demographic engagement, and strengthening youth resilience. The program's flexibility allows individuals to develop diverse projects aligned with these pillars. ToLSO is distinguished by its commitment to inclusivity, reserving resources for underserved communities. Those interested can explore the program at www.ncceep.com/tolso and participate in weekly information sessions for guidance on project development and grant application.

Ontario Tech Ridgebacks Elevate High-Performance Commitment with New Leadership

Photo Credit: FB/OTRidgebacks

The Ontario Tech Ridgebacks have solidified their commitment to high-performance sports programs over the past three years, culminating in the appointment of Audra Sherman as the Associate Director of High-Performance Sport. Sherman, concurrently serving as the head coach of the women's soccer team, brings extensive professional sports experience to her role. The Ridgebacks' dedication to both athletic and academic excellence is evident through various initiatives, including the Student-Athlete Mentor program and the addition of a mental performance consultant. The commitment to high performance has yielded success on the field, with notable achievements in soccer, lacrosse, and basketball. The department's vision emphasizes the collective pursuit of excellence and the development of emerging leaders.