In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

☀️ Today’s Weather in Whitby 

🎖️ Consumer Advocate Patrick Foran Appointed to the Order of Ontario

🏆 Ajax spoken-word poet Dwayne Morgan appointed to the Order of Ontario

 🛫 Trudeau's Office Clarifies No-Cost Jamaica Stay Amid Ethics Concerns

 🚨 Early Morning Heist: Four Suspects Rob Courtice Drug Mart, Authorities Seek Leads

🚔 Armed Robbery at Ajax Gas Station, Police Seeking Suspect 

 🧮 Join Durham Region's Budget Town Hall: Have Your Say in the 2024 Budget!

💃🏻 Stay Active This Winter: Registration Open for Whitby Recreation Programs

🏆 Trivia

 🏒 Oshawa Generals Shutout by Soo Greyhounds in Tight 1-0 Game

 📅 Whitby Events

Consumer Advocate Patrick Foran Appointed to the Order of Ontario

The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Chancellor of the Order of Ontario, has announced the induction of 25 individuals into the Order of Ontario for 2023. This prestigious award, the highest civilian honour in the province, has recognized over 800 people since its inception in 1986 for their exceptional contributions. Patrick Foran was one of this year’s inductees.

Patrick Foran, a notable CTV Consumer Alert reporter based in Whitby, Ontario, has been a stalwart defender of consumer rights and financial literacy for over thirty years. His dedicated reporting on consumer fraud has been instrumental in assisting thousands of individuals, aiding them in recovering millions of dollars. Foran's commitment extends beyond journalism; he is a committed educator and advocate for financial awareness.

He frequently speaks at various community venues such as libraries, churches, and community centres, imparting valuable knowledge on financial matters. Beyond his speaking engagements, Foran actively collaborates with charitable organizations. His involvement includes work with the Bloorview Kids Foundation and World Vision, organizations known for their impactful contributions to society.

Foran's expertise and dedication have also been recognized at a national level. He served on the federal government’s Financial Literacy Task Force, a testament to his knowledge and experience in the field. His literary contributions are equally significant, with four best-selling books to his name, further cementing his role as a key figure in consumer advocacy and financial education. Read more.

Ajax spoken-word poet Dwayne Morgan appointed to the Order of Ontario

The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Chancellor of the Order of Ontario, recently announced the induction of 25 distinguished individuals into the Order of Ontario for 2023. This esteemed accolade, known as the highest civilian honour in the province, has been bestowed on more than 800 individuals since its establishment in 1986. The award recognizes those who have made outstanding contributions in various fields. Dwayne Morgan was amongst this year’s inductees.

Dwayne Morgan, hailing from Ajax, is a figure of significant influence in the world of spoken-word poetry. His journey began in high school when he discovered his passion for writing. At that time, the spoken-word genre was not widely recognized, presenting challenges for a young Black teenager from Scarborough seeking to make his mark. Undeterred by the lack of open doors, Morgan took the initiative to create his own opportunities.

He founded "Up From The Roots Entertainment," a venture that played a crucial role in providing platforms and opportunities for other racialized artists. Morgan's efforts extended beyond his own organization. He actively lobbied the League of Canadian Poets to recognize performance poets, contributing to the broadening of the literary landscape in Canada.

Morgan's impact on the spoken-word community is further evidenced by his role in producing two of North America's largest spoken-word events. These events not only showcased diverse talents but also brought spoken-word poetry into a more prominent position in the cultural arena.

Beyond his organizational and advocacy efforts, Morgan is also celebrated for his personal artistic contributions. He has performed globally, taking his powerful words and inspiring actions to international stages. His journey from a high school writer to a globally recognized spoken-word artist exemplifies his dedication, talent, and influence. Read more.

Trudeau's Office Clarifies No-Cost Jamaica Stay Amid Ethics Concerns

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is vacationing in Jamaica at a property owned by family friends, at no cost. Initially, his office had stated the family would pay for their stay. The ethics commissioner was consulted prior to the trip, ensuring rule compliance. Trudeau reimburses for personal travel equivalent to commercial airline fares. The exact location of their stay is undisclosed, but past vacations have been at properties of family friends. Trudeau previously faced an ethics violation for a similar situation in 2016. The ethics office emphasizes confidentiality and the allowance for gifts from friends or relatives. Read more.

Do you Have the Scoop on a Breaking Local News Story?

Click the button below and give us the lead!

Early Morning Heist: Four Suspects Rob Courtice Drug Mart, Authorities Seek Leads

In the early hours of Sunday, October 8, 2023, a Shoppers Drug Mart in Courtice became the target of a burglary. Four individuals broke into the store located at 1645 Regional Hwy 2 around 4:10 a.m., forcibly entering through the smashed front door. The group swiftly stole various items, including video game systems and perfume bottles. Amidst their escape, they dropped a large screen television in the parking lot.

The first suspect is described as a slim male with a goatee and large glasses with clear frames. He wore a blue baseball hat, grey gloves, a grey and black sweater with a white shirt underneath, blue jeans, light-colored running shoes, and carried a metal stick. The second suspect, also slim, wore a black mask, black and grey gloves, a grey sweater with an orange zipper, a black shirt, blue track pants, and black shoes. The third suspect, believed to be male and of medium build, was clad in a white face covering, white gloves, a grey Nike tracksuit with the hood up, and white shoes, and was carrying a trash bin. The fourth suspect, presumed male with a medium to heavy build, was dressed in black gloves, a grey tracksuit with the hood up, and grey shoes.

Authorities are seeking assistance in identifying the suspects. D/Cst. Snow of the East Division Criminal Investigations Branch can be contacted at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1617 for any relevant information. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or through their website, with potential eligibility for a $2,000 cash reward. Read more.

Armed Robbery at Ajax Gas Station, Police Seeking Suspect

An armed robbery occurred at a Shell Gas Station in Ajax in the early hours of Wednesday, December 13, 2023. At around 3:45 a.m., West Division officers were called to the scene at 115 Salem Road South. The suspect, a white male of medium build and about 6 feet tall, entered the gas station under the guise of purchasing cigarettes. When the cashier opened the register to complete the sale, the suspect revealed a firearm and demanded all the cash from the till. He fled the scene before police arrived, leaving the victim unharmed.

The suspect was notably wearing a black jacket and black pants. Authorities, including Det. Graff of the Robbery Unit, are actively seeking information regarding the incident and encourage anyone with knowledge to come forward. Contact can be made at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5365. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or through their website, with a potential $2,000 cash reward for useful information.

It's important to note that while the details of this incident are based on a police investigation, the allegations have not yet been proven in court. Read more.

Join Durham Region's Budget Town Hall: Have Your Say in the 2024 Budget!

Durham Region is hosting a Budget Town Hall on January 11 at 6:30 p.m., inviting residents to actively participate in shaping the 2024 Business Plans and Budgets. This event offers a platform for community members to learn more about the Region's programs and services, express their opinions on key priority areas, and contribute to the budgeting process.

Residents have multiple ways to engage and provide their input:

Online Participation: Residents can submit their questions and feedback online using the 'Have Your Say!' tool or by emailing [email protected]. This can be done either before or during the event.

Phone Participation: For those who prefer to join by phone, registration is required. Residents can register by providing their name and phone number using the 'Have Your Say!' tool or by emailing [email protected].

Additionally, the Town Hall will be accessible for viewing via a live stream on the designated webpage. For those who have pre-registered to participate by phone, there will be an option to listen in over the phone.

This initiative reflects the Region's commitment to inclusive and participatory governance, ensuring that the voices of the community are heard and considered in the budgetary process. Read more.

Stay Active This Winter: Registration Open for Whitby Recreation Programs

Registration is now open for both Whitby and non-Whitby residents to participate in a variety of Winter Recreation Programs. The Town's website offers detailed information on all programs available for enrollment. To ensure the program of your choice runs smoothly, it's advised not to delay registration, as decisions to proceed or cancel classes are made one week before their start date.

Several winter classes, programs, and workshops still have available spaces. Interested individuals can inquire and register at the Front Desk. These activities provide a great opportunity to stay active and connect with friends during the winter season. Below is a list of some classes with openings:

55+ Centre:

• Yoga Flow with Nancy

• Spanish Intermediate with Tony

• Total Body Workout with Tracy

• Total Body Stretch with Nicole

• Social Ballroom Dance - Level 1 with Nicole

• Yogalates with Nancy

• Low Impact Boot Camp with Kim

• Zumba Gold with Nicole

• Yoga Flow with Annalisa

Brooklin Community Centre & Library:

• Total Body Stretch with Lynn

• Yoga with David

• Lifewriting

• Twenty, Twenty, Twenty with Lynn

• Yoga - Relax and Restore with Lynn

Centennial Building:

• Cardio and Core with Kim

• Yogalates with Mag

• Yoga - Chair with Judy

• Learn to Play Pickleball

• Light Circuit Training with Nicole

55+ Centre Workshops:

• Wellness Seminar - Self Management Skills (FREE)

• Nature Art – Acrylic Paints with David

• Quick and Healthy Snack Foods with Sylvia

• Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Pain Workshop (FREE)

• Wellness for Weight Loss Clinic with Sylvia

• Powerful Tools for Caregivers

• Navigating Financial Well-being for Seniors

• Centennial Building Workshops:

• Wellness Seminar - Self Management Skills

• Sacred Art of Blessing

For more information and to view the full schedule, visit the Town's website and explore the 'Activity Search' section. Find activities here.

We are seeking Amazing Stories

About our Local Area Businesses!

Help us celebrate our Community’s Achievements!

Got a Favourite Whitby Business? Nominate Them to be Featured in Whitby Thrive!

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!

Coming Soon!

Which geographic feature in Brooklin, Ontario, is notable for its high population growth and transformation from a primarily rural area to a part of urban Whitby in recent decades?

• a) The Oak Ridges Moraine

• b) Lynde Creek Watershed

• c) Macedonian Village

• d) Ashburn and Myrtle villages

Answer posted below.

Oshawa Generals Shutout by Soo Greyhounds in Tight 1-0 Game

The Oshawa Generals suffered a 1-0 shutout loss to the Soo Greyhounds, with the game's sole goal scored by Brenden Sirizzotti. Goalkeepers Jacob Oster and Landon Miller were the stars of the game, with Miller achieving his second shutout of the season. Read more.

January 5th

• Whitby Lights the Night

• Winter Break Activities at the Canadian Automotive Museum - 10:00AM-4:00PM

• Sleeping Beauty - Wake Me Up Before you Panto - Regent Theatre, Oshawa

January 6th

• Whitby Lights the Night

• Winter Break Activities at the Canadian Automotive Museum - 10:00AM-4:00PM

• Sleeping Beauty - Wake Me Up Before you Panto - Regent Theatre, Oshawa

January 7th

• Whitby Lights the Night

• Sleeping Beauty - Wake Me Up Before you Panto - Regent Theatre, Oshawa

We'd love to hear your thoughts on Whitby Thrive! Are there any specific topics or features you'd like to see more of in our newsletter? Please click the button below to share your suggestions and feedback with us.

Coming Soon