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  • 🌉 Columbus Road's White Bridge Overhaul, 🧸 Durham's Child Care Revolution, and 🚨 Urgent Whitby Family Search

🌉 Columbus Road's White Bridge Overhaul, 🧸 Durham's Child Care Revolution, and 🚨 Urgent Whitby Family Search

Issue #056

Author

Whitby Thrive
25 Jan

Issue #056 - January 25, 2024

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In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

🏆 Trivia

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Conservation Authority Warns of Potential Flooding and Rising Water Levels

buoy launched at the sea

The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority has issued a Water Safety Statement following forecasts from the Surface Water Monitoring Centre (SWMC) of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). The statement highlights potential risks due to unsettled weather conditions and warmer temperatures expected in the area over the next four days.

The forecast predicts temperatures above freezing with 25-45mm of precipitation, mostly rain, expected between today and Saturday. This, combined with the current average snow-water equivalent of 27mm, will likely lead to increased runoff. Consequently, water levels and flows in streams could rise above normal. While widespread flooding is not anticipated, there may be fast flowing water and potential flooding in low lying areas and roadways, especially those known to be flood-prone.

Further concerns include the potential weakening and breakup of ice cover on water bodies, which may lead to localized water level increases, ice jams, and possible flooding. In response to these risks, the Authority urges residents to avoid all watercourses, shorelines, and structures like bridges, culverts, and dams. These areas are considered highly dangerous due to increased wave activity, elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along stream banks and Lake Ontario shorelines. The statement also emphasizes the importance of reminding children about these hazards.

This Water Safety Statement will remain in effect through Sunday, January 28, 2024, or until further notice. The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority will keep monitoring stream conditions and provide updates as necessary. Read more.

Historic White Bridge on Columbus Road Set for Major Replacement Project

Photo credit: whitby.ca

The Town is set to replace the 94-year-old White Bridge on Columbus Road. The project involves tree removals from January 29 to March 23, 2024, followed by the demolition and reconstruction of the bridge, expected to last about two years. Traffic on Columbus Road will be diverted, and residents are encouraged to use alternative routes. Read more.

New Service Plan to Revolutionize Early Learning and Child Care in Durham

The Region of Durham has unveiled an ambitious Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan, which aims to enhance and support the child care community and families in Durham region through to 2027. This plan is aligned with the Ministry of Education’s priorities and is designed to reinforce the region’s existing licensed child care system, which is a product of successful community collaborations.

The plan outlines several key priorities:

  • Expansion and Accessibility of Child Care: This involves integrating more effectively into the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system, increasing the capacity of licensed home child care, and utilizing funding opportunities to broaden support programs and services.

  • Supportive and Inclusive Child Care: Focus will be on providing mental health and well-being support for staff, enhancing diverse and inclusive practices, supporting children with special needs, and improving comprehensive services for children and families.

  • Development of Early Childhood Educators: The plan aims to attract and retain qualified Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECE) through robust workforce strategies, promoting RECE as a profession, and facilitating pathways to becoming a RECE.

  • Leveraging Technology: Optimizing virtual service delivery and employing technology to improve communication and collaboration is also a key component of the plan.

For more details on the Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan, interested individuals can visit durham.ca/ChildrensServices.

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

Employee Arrested for Series of Thefts at Whitby Retirement Residence

Just a sudden attempt to express the concept of crime.

Kelsha Charles, 30, has been arrested and charged with multiple break-and-enter and theft offenses at a retirement home in Whitby. The investigation, concluded on January 4, 2024, revealed Charles engaging in theft in various residents' rooms, leading to her arrest and subsequent release on an Undertaking. The police are seeking additional information from the public.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Giguere of the Central West Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1852.

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.

** Thanks to one of our readers for the tip!!!

Urgent Search for Mother and Three Children Continues, Arrest Warrant Issued

Photo credit: drps.ca

In a developing story from East Division, authorities are intensifying their search for a mother, Astrid Schiller, and her three children, Leon, 11, Christopher, 10, and Thomas, 9. The investigation, which began in December 2023, has recently escalated with the issuance of a warrant on January 24, 2024, for the arrest of 54-year-old Schiller, a resident of Clarington. She is charged with three counts of Abduction by Parent and Disobeying a Court Order.

Despite ongoing efforts and previous communication with Schiller, the police have been unable to pinpoint her and her children's whereabouts. The authorities emphasize that there have been no safety concerns reported for the children throughout the investigation. This case has involved significant coordination between the courts and the Children’s Aid Society.

The police are urging anyone with information about the location of the children or their mother to come forward. The Durham Regional Police can be reached at 905-579-1520. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at their website, with the potential for a $2,000 cash reward for information leading to a resolution. Read more.

Capturing the Essence of Whitby: A Close-Up with Photographic Touch and Its Visionary Founder, Gale D’Souza

Gale D’Souza - Photographic Touch

In Whitby, Ontario, a creative force is reshaping the landscape of portrait photography. Photographic Touch, nestled in the heart of this vibrant community, is not your typical photography studio. Founded in 2018 by the dynamic Gale D'Souza, this full-service photography business has become a beacon for those seeking to capture life's moments in the most authentic and artistic way possible.

The journey of Photographic Touch is a tale of passion evolving into professional mastery. Gale, initially captivated by the allure of wildlife photography, soon discovered a profound connection with portrait photography. This pivot was inspired by a life-changing workshop, igniting a journey towards becoming a Portrait Master. From boudoir to branding, headshots to model portfolios, Photographic Touch offers a wide range of services, each infused with Gale's unique artistic vision.

What truly sets Photographic Touch apart is its commitment to personalized, out-of-the-box photography sessions. Gale is not just a photographer; she's a storyteller, capturing the essence of each subject. Her resourcefulness and creativity have earned her accolades, including being a published and award-winning photographer. Gale's aspiration to become an associate with the Portrait Masters speaks volumes about her dedication to her craft.

But Photographic Touch is more than just a business; it's a vital part of the Whitby community. Gale's love for connecting with local entrepreneurs shines through her regular hosting of networking events. Her involvement in family days and contributions to charity auctions with photoshoot certificates highlight her commitment to giving back to the community that has embraced her business.

Looking to the future, Photographic Touch is not resting on its laurels. Gale is currently diving into conceptual work to create content, competing with other photographers from around the world. With the associated recognition and awards, Gale will continue to propel herself towards becoming an associate with the Portrait Masters. Collaborating with models, she is on a mission to showcase her evolving talent and vision, aiming to enrich her portfolio in headshot and branding photography.

For those in Whitby and beyond looking to capture their personal or professional milestones, Photographic Touch stands out as a gem. To experience Gale D'Souza's photographic magic, reach out to her at at 905-809-1100. You can explore more of her work at www.galedsouza.com and connect with her on social media including Instagram (@gale_photographic_touch), Facebook, and LinkedIn.

In a world where moments are fleeting, Photographic Touch offers a chance to hold onto them forever, through the lens of a photographer who sees not just the person, but their story.

A designed album with your custom portraits

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Upcoming Webinar: Mastering Harmony Between Domestic Dogs and Wildlife

With all the recent Coyote sightings and reports, I thought this may be of interest to our readers.

Don't miss the upcoming Canid Connections webinar, "Fostering Harmony Between Domestic and Wild Canids," scheduled for Thursday, February 1st, 2024, at 6:30 PM Eastern Time. This engaging and informative session will feature Hannah Daigle, a professional dog trainer from Calgary, AB, known for her commitment to strengthening the bond between humans and their canine companions.

In this webinar, Hannah will address several key topics to empower dog guardians. She will discuss the critical role of leash laws in safeguarding our pets and the importance of respecting wildlife by providing them the necessary space to flourish. Additionally, she will cover etiquette for dog guardians, highlighting appropriate behaviors and responsible practices to encourage positive community interactions. A significant focus will be on understanding canine body language, offering insights into nonverbal communication cues that help in better interpreting and responding to dogs' needs and behaviors.

This webinar is ideal for anyone interested in enhancing their knowledge about managing pets in harmony with wildlife and improving communication with their canine friends. To participate, register in advance using the provided link. Upon registration, attendees will receive a confirmation email with details on joining the webinar. Learn more and Register here.

Oshawa Generals' Trio Set to Shine in 2024 NHL/CHL Top Prospects Game

Photo credit - chl.ca

Ben Danford, Beckett Sennecke, and Luca Marrelli of the Oshawa Generals are set to participate in the 2024 NHL/CHL Top Prospects Game. The Generals have had a strong season, and these players have been instrumental in their success. The game will be a showcase of their talents and is available for viewing across various platforms. Read more.

Which historical figure is credited as the founder of Downtown Whitby?

  • A) John Graves Simcoe

  • B) Peter Perry

  • C) William Lyon Mackenzie

  • D) James Whitby Jones

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Trivia Answer

Correct Answer: B) Peter Perry

Peter Perry is recognized as the founder of Downtown Whitby, playing a crucial role in the establishment of the town's business centre in the 19th century.