In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

☀️ Today’s Weather in Whitby 

💰 New Funding to Strengthen Ontario's Fight Against Hate Crimes

👩🏾‍💻 Whitby Psychiatrist Juveria Zaheer to Showcase Intellect on 'Jeopardy' Champions Wildcard Tournament

 🚨 Late-Night Traffic Stop in Whitby Leads to Discovery of Firearms and Narcotics

🎬 Durham Region Hosts Seminar for Potential Film and TV Location Hosts

🏆 Trivia

 🥅 Oshawa Generals Triumph with 8-2 Victory Over Kingston Frontenacs

 🏒 Ontario Tech Women's Hockey Falls to Windsor Lancers 6-2 on Road Trip

 📅 Whitby Events

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• Trivia Answer

New Funding to Strengthen Ontario's Fight Against Hate Crimes

The Ontario government is making a substantial investment of over $1.7 million through the Safer and Vital Communities (SVC) Grant program to combat hate-motivated crimes across the province. This funding, to be distributed over two years, is part of the government's commitment to fostering safe and inclusive communities.

Solicitor General Michael Kerzner emphasized the urgency of addressing acts that incite hatred, fear, and intimidation, which have no place in society. The initiative aims to support community-based organizations in tackling the root causes of hate in all its forms.

The SVC Grant, focusing on the theme "Preventing Hate-Motivated Crime Through Community Collaboration," targets cultural, ethnic, and faith-based hate in areas that have seen a rise in such crimes. It is open to community-based, not-for-profit organizations and First Nation Band Councils. Applicants are required to collaborate with local police services and are encouraged to partner with other organizations to ensure comprehensive community involvement.

Ottawa Police Service Chief Eric Stubbs has welcomed the initiative, noting the timely nature of the grant in light of increasing hate crimes in Ottawa. He urged victims of hate crimes to report these incidents to local authorities.

Building on a previous $20.5 million investment by the Ontario government through the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia, this grant is part of ongoing efforts to eradicate hate, racism, and discrimination in the province. Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism Michael Ford reiterated the government's zero-tolerance policy for these issues and its commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive Ontario.

Successful SVC Grant applicants can receive up to $85,000 annually over the two years. The application process opens in late January through Transfer Payment Ontario, with a deadline of February 26, 2024. Read more.

Whitby Psychiatrist Juveria Zaheer to Showcase Intellect on 'Jeopardy' Champions Wildcard Tournament

Juveria Zaheer, a psychiatrist based in Whitby, returns to the popular game show "Jeopardy" on Wednesday, January 17. She will be competing in the Jeopardy Champions Wildcard Tournament. Her return to the show comes after securing her spot from a second chance tournament that took place this past December.

Zaheer's participation in such a high-profile competition highlights her versatility and talents beyond her professional field of psychiatry. Her upcoming appearance in the Champions Wildcard Tournament on "Jeopardy" will undoubtedly be an exciting event for her supporters and viewers of the show. Read more.

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

Late-Night Traffic Stop in Whitby Leads to Discovery of Firearms and Narcotics

A 27-year-old Markham man faces multiple charges after police found a loaded gun and narcotics during a traffic stop in Whitby. Identified as Harman Minhas, he was arrested late on January 12, 2024, following a vehicle search prompted by the smell of cannabis. Minhas is now facing seven charges including possession of a loaded firearm and narcotics and was held for a bail hearing. Police are seeking additional information from the public, offering a potential reward through Crime Stoppers for helpful tips.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Durham Regional Police at 1-888-579-1520.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward. Read more.

Durham Region Hosts Seminar for Potential Film and TV Location Hosts

The Durham Region Film Commission (Film Durham) and various municipal film offices are inviting property owners interested in listing their locales as potential filming sites to a special seminar. This event, geared toward homeowners and businesses in Durham Region, is an opportunity to learn about hosting film or television productions. The seminar will cover various topics, including how to effectively market a location, preparing for scouting and site visits, becoming a film-friendly location, and understanding the responsibilities of a production company.

Key details of the event are as follows:

• Date and Time: February 29, from 1 to 4 p.m.

• Venue: Parkwood Estate National Historic Site, McLaughlin Room (Carriage House) at 270 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa.

• Purpose: With Durham Region's diverse mix of industrial, urban, and rural settings, the seminar aims to educate potential hosts about the region's significant role in Ontario's film and television industry.

• Additional Information: Light refreshments will be provided, but seating is limited. Interested parties should register by February 23 at 11:59 p.m. at FilmDurham.EventBrite.ca.

Durham Region boasts a rich tapestry of filming locations, including a dedicated film studio, Canada’s largest filming backlot, and a variety of urban, rural, and industrial settings. It's also home to the Durham Region International Film Festival (DRIFF) and the DRIFF Emerging Filmmaker Incubator, highlighting its vibrant and inclusive film culture.

For more insights into Durham Region’s film and television industry, visit InvestDurham.ca/film.

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Oshawa Generals Triumph with 8-2 Victory Over Kingston Frontenacs

The Oshawa Generals delivered a commanding 8-2 win over the Kingston Frontenacs, extending their winning streak to five games on January 14, 2024. The Generals showcased a strong offensive game, with several players contributing multiple points, and goalie Jacob Oster playing a key role in their defence. Despite late goals from Kingston, the Generals maintained a significant lead throughout the game. Read more.

Ontario Tech Women's Hockey Falls to Windsor Lancers 6-2 on Road Trip

The Ontario Tech women's hockey team suffered a 6-2 loss to the Windsor Lancers during a road game. Kayla Welk and Cassandra Delves scored for the Ridgebacks, with Lauren Beaulieu assisting on both goals. Read more.

Whitby, Ontario, was an important maritime location in the early 19th century. What was Whitby's chief asset during this time?

• A) Its large shipbuilding industry.

• B) Its renowned maritime school.

• C) Its natural harbour on Lake Ontario.

• D) Its lighthouse and navigation systems.

Answer posted below.

January 16th

• Momma & Baby Yoga - 11:15AM-12:00PM

• Durham College Program Information Night - Oshawa - 5:30PM-7:30PM

January 17th

• Older Adult Information and Active Living Fair - Clarington - 9:00AM-1:00PM

• A Taste of Italy - Oshawa - 1:30PM-3:00pm

• Durham College Program Information Night - Whitby - 5:30PM-7:30PM

• Trivia - Brock Street Lounge - 7:00PM

January 18th

• Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Pain Workshop (55+) - 9:30AM-12:00PM

• Quick and Healthy Snack Foods with Sylvia (55+) - 1:30PM-2:30PM

• Euchre - Brock Street Lounge - 7:00PM

January 19th

• Rise and Shine Breakfast - Oshawa - 8:30AM-10:00AM

• Dylan Gott Comdey Show - 8:00PM

• 80's Night at Bullocks Pub - 9:00PM-12:00AM

• Live Music with Dino Stakos - Brock Street Lounge - 7:00PM

January 20th

• Afternoon Tea - Chanterelle Bistro - 11:30AM-2:00PM

• World Religion Day - 2:00PM-4:00PM

• Saturday Studio Winter 2024 - 10:30AM and 1:00PM

• Dylan Gott Comdey Show - 8:00PM

• Live Music with Cale Crow - Brock Street Lounge - 7:00PM

January 21st

• Whitby Firefighters vs NHL Hockey Heroes Charity Game - 2:00PM

• BMO Free Public Skate - 2:00PM-3:45PM

January 25th

• Wellness for Weight Loss Program with Sylvia - 1:30PM-2:30PM

February 3rd

• Afternoon Tea - Chanterell Bistro - 11:30AM-2:00PM

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