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  • 🍷 Ontario's Alcohol Retail Expansion | 🏠 Durham's 10-Year Housing Plan | 🚔 DRPS Holiday Drive Needs You!

🍷 Ontario's Alcohol Retail Expansion | 🏠 Durham's 10-Year Housing Plan | 🚔 DRPS Holiday Drive Needs You!

Issue #015

15 Dec

Issue #015 - December 15, 2023

In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

☀️ Today’s Weather in Whitby 

 🍷 Ontario Expands Alcohol Retail to Include Convenience and Grocery Stores by 2026

 🏡 Durham Region Calls for Community Input on New 10-Year Housing Plan

🚔 DRPS’ 35th Annual Holiday Drive Still Seeking Donations to Brighten Season for Families in Need

 🎄 Holiday Hampers Bring Cheer and Support to Durham Families in Need (Reposted by Request)

 🚞 York-Durham Heritage Railway - The Train that Saved Christmas

 🔔 Got a Favourite Whitby Business? Nominate Them for a Feature in Our Community Newsletter!

 🥅 Hat Trick Hero Lockhart Leads Oshawa Generals to Stunning 6-2 Win Over Steelheads

 📅 Whitby Events

Ontario Expands Alcohol Retail to Include Convenience and Grocery Stores by 2026

Fruits Mojitos

Ontario's government has announced a major expansion of alcohol retail options by January 1, 2026. Beer, wine, cider, and low-alcohol beverages will be available in convenience, grocery, and big box stores, a change not seen since the end of prohibition. The LCBO will still be the exclusive seller of spirits. The policy includes competitive pricing, no restrictions on pack sizes, continued recycling programs, and support for local producers. Additionally, $10 million will be invested in public health and social responsibility initiatives. The LCBO will also remain the exclusive wholesaler for alcohol in the province. Read more.

Durham Region Calls for Community Input on New 10-Year Housing Plan

Small house on an autumn’s day

Durham Region is nearing the completion of its current 10-Year Housing Plan, "At Home in Durham," which spans from 2014 to 2024. As this plan approaches its end, the region is seeking public input to shape its new 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan. Residents are encouraged to participate in a survey designed to gather insights on the key housing challenges they face. The feedback from this survey will play a crucial role in developing a housing plan that aligns with the needs and priorities of all Durham residents, aiming to create effective housing solutions. The survey will be available for responses until January 7, 2024. Read more and access survey here.

DRPS’ 35th Annual Holiday Drive Still Seeking Donations to Brighten Season for Families in Need

bethbap kids cars toys road carpet

Durham Regional Police Service continues its 35th Annual Food and Toy Drive to support families in need during the holiday season. The drive seeks contributions of food and toys, emphasizing the heightened need due to the increased cost of living. Donations are distributed through community agencies and can be made at various locations throughout Durham Region. Donations can be dropped off at any DRPS division.

Holiday Hampers Bring Cheer and Support to Durham Families in Need

Durham Region is combating food insecurity during the holiday season by distributing holiday hampers to families in need. This initiative, led by several local organizations, aims to provide essential food and festive items to those affected by economic challenges. These hampers symbolize community support and hope, offering more than just nourishment. Local residents are encouraged to contribute through donations and volunteering, embodying the true spirit of holiday giving. The following link is a summary how you can donate and how someone can register for a hamper. Reposed by request.

More information from Lakeridge Health.

York-Durham Heritage Railway - The Train that Saved Christmas

Photo credit: https://ydhr.ca/

Step aboard the York-Durham Heritage Railway for an enchanting Premium Nighttime Santa’s North Pole Experience & Train Ride. This exclusive event offers a limited, once-in-a-lifetime holiday adventure, perfect for elevating your festive spirits.

As the evening descends, the train transforms into a magical journey to the North Pole. Surrounded by a starlit sky and sparkling winter scenery, passengers are transported on a festively adorned train, setting the scene for a memorable night.

The highlight of the evening is an exclusive meet-and-greet with Santa Claus aboard "The Train that Saved Christmas," a special train only accessible during this limited time. This intimate encounter allows guests to interact with Santa, make holiday wishes, and receive a unique keepsake from the experience.

The journey is complemented by premium festive treats and warm beverages, enhancing the magical ambiance. The evening is not just for children or families but also offers a romantic setting for couples. With activities like fire pits, mulled wine, Baileys hot chocolate, and the opportunity to sing Christmas carols under the glow of thousands of twinkling lights, it’s an ideal date night or escape from the city.

This premium experience promises a blend of holiday joy, romance, and unforgettable memories, suitable for all ages and catering to both families and couples seeking a special way to celebrate the season. More information and tickets here.

Got a Favourite Whitby Business? Nominate Them for a Feature in Our Community Newsletter!

Whitby Thrive, your local community newsletter, is on the lookout for remarkable businesses to feature in our upcoming editions! We're calling on our readers to help us in this endeavour. If you know a local business in Whitby that deserves some recognition, we would love to hear from you. Nominate your favourite local business by sending us an email. This is a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on those businesses that make our community special. Don't miss the chance to help a local business get the spotlight it deserves!

Hat Trick Hero Lockhart Leads Oshawa Generals to Stunning 6-2 Win Over Steelheads

Connor Lockhart's hat trick propelled the Oshawa Generals to a 6-2 win against the Mississauga Steelheads, marking their third consecutive victory. The Generals overcame an early deficit with a strong offensive display and solid goaltending from Jacob Oster. They look forward to their next matchup in Mississauga and a home game against Peterborough. Read more.

December 15th

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December 22nd

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