In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

☀️ Today’s Weather in Whitby 

📚 Unsafe Working Conditions Lead to Staff Work Refusal at Elsie MacGill Public School

🗒️ Whitby Assault Trial Concludes with Guilty Verdicts, Acquittal on Attempted Murder

🚔 Heroic Police Constables Prevent Potential Train Track Tragedy in Oshawa

 🚨 Whitby OPP Recovers Two Stolen Vehicles, Quebec Man Charged Thanks to Tracking Technology

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

 📍 Summer Job Alert for Students: Durham Region Opens Diverse Employment Opportunities

🏆 Trivia

 🥅 Oshawa Generals Edge Erie Otters in High-Octane 6-5 Victory

 🏀 Keon Baker's Stellar 32 Points Propel Ridgebacks to Victory Over Lancers

⛹🏼‍♀️ Ontario Tech Women's Basketball Narrowly Misses Win Against Windsor Lancers

⛹🏽‍♂️ Durham Lords Triumph Over Loyalist Lancers, Extend Winning Streak to 11

 🏡 Whitby's Weekly Real Estate Update

🎗️Whitby’s Obituaries for the Week

 📅 Whitby Events

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Unsafe Working Conditions Lead to Staff Work Refusal at Elsie MacGill Public School

Staff at Elsie MacGill Public School in Oshawa refused to work on Thursday, January 25, due to unsafe working conditions linked to student behaviour issues. The ETFO Durham Teachers’ Local confirmed the action, highlighting a regional concern. Parents and community members also demonstrated against bullying at the school. The Durham District School Board is addressing these concerns, emphasizing student safety and well-being. Read more.

Whitby Assault Trial Concludes with Guilty Verdicts, Acquittal on Attempted Murder

Anthony Doiron-Francis was found guilty of aggravated assault and aggravated sexual assault, but acquitted of attempted murder, in a 2020 Whitby assault case. Justice Catriona Verner noted the authenticity of Doiron-Francis's testimony and the lack of premeditated intent to kill. The case will return to court for sentencing on February 20. Read more.

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

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Heroic Police Constables Prevent Potential Train Track Tragedy in Oshawa

Two constables from DRPS East Division in Oshawa averted a potential tragedy by rescuing a man poised to jump off a bridge onto train tracks. The incident occurred on January 23rd, 2024, near Harmony Road and Bloor Street. The officers acted swiftly, reaching the man just as an eastbound train was approaching, and managed to bring him to safety. The event highlights the crucial role of prompt intervention in crisis situations. Read more about DRPS Mental Health Supports.

Whitby OPP Recovers Two Stolen Vehicles, Quebec Man Charged Thanks to Tracking Technology

Whitby OPP recovered two stolen vehicles on Highway 401, thanks to an Apple AirTag used by the owner of one of the vehicles. The tracking led to a container on a transport vehicle, resulting in the recovery and charges against a 59-year-old man from Saint-Leonard, Quebec. Read more.

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

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.

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We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Whitby area residents in an upcoming issue of Whitby Thrive?

✅ Own a Local Business? Apply Now to be Featured!

Summer Job Alert for Students: Durham Region Opens Diverse Employment Opportunities

🌟 Calling all post-secondary students! 🌟 The Durham Region is excited to announce that it is now accepting applications for the 2024 Summer Student Employment Program. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to gain valuable work experience in various fields. The program offers a range of positions, catering to different interests and skills. Available areas include:

• 💻 Administrative Support: Ideal for those interested in office management and clerical work.

• 💙 Early Learning and Child Care: Perfect for those passionate about working with children and early education.

• 🍎 Food and Nutrition: Suitable for individuals interested in dietetics, nutrition, and food services.

• 🚧 General Labour: Great for those who enjoy physical work and outdoor activities.

• 🧹 General Maintenance and Cleaning: For those who take pride in maintaining clean and safe environments.

• 🩺 Nursing and Health Care: Tailored for students pursuing careers in nursing and healthcare.

• 🚑 Supporting Paramedics Durham Region Health Department: A unique chance to assist paramedics and learn about emergency medical services.

• 🚍 Supporting Durham Region Transit (DRT): An opportunity to be involved in public transportation services.

• 💼 Technical: Ideal for students with an interest in technical and specialized fields.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills, build your resume, and contribute to your community this summer. For more details and to submit your resume, visit durham.ca/StudentJobs. Start your journey towards a rewarding summer experience today!

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Oshawa Generals Edge Erie Otters in High-Octane 6-5 Victory

The Oshawa Generals triumphed over the Erie Otters with a close 6-5 victory, extending their winning streak to three games. Key players included Calum Ritchie, with four points, and Stuart Rolofs and Rasmus Kumpulainen, each scoring two goals. The game was marked by intense back-and-forth scoring, with the Generals ultimately securing the win on a powerplay goal. Read more.

Keon Baker's Stellar 32 Points Propel Ridgebacks to Victory Over Lancers

Keon Baker led the Ridgebacks to an 87-79 victory against the Windsor Lancers with a notable 32-point performance. The Ridgebacks gained a crucial lead in the third quarter, with Ayub Nurhussien and Zubair Seyed also contributing significantly. This win marks their 12th of the season, with Baker's score ranking as the fifth-highest in Ridgeback history. Read more.

Ontario Tech Women's Basketball Narrowly Misses Win Against Windsor Lancers

In a closely contested game, the Ontario Tech women's basketball team was defeated 70-58 by the Windsor Lancers. Felicity Villarin led the Ridgebacks in scoring, but a strong fourth-quarter performance from the Lancers' Julia Chiarot sealed the game. The Ridgebacks are preparing for their upcoming game against the Western Mustangs before returning to Oshawa. Read more.

Durham Lords Triumph Over Loyalist Lancers, Extend Winning Streak to 11

Durham College men's basketball team secured their 11th consecutive win with a 90-78 victory over the Loyalist Lancers. Key players included Kevin Hamlet and Mark Stoop, with the team demonstrating strong offensive and defensive skills. The Lords are preparing for their upcoming game against the Seneca Sting. Read more.

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Whitby's Weekly Real Estate Update

1. 960 Columbus Rd W, Whitby, ON L1M 1P5

   • Sale Price: $4,600,000, Bedrooms: 2+2, Bathrooms: 5.0

2. 6 Wilson House Dr, Whitby, ON L0B 1A0

   • Sale Price: $1,950,000, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 4.0

3. 304 Athol St, Whitby, ON L1N 3Z4

   • Sale Price: $1,700,000, Bedrooms: 8, Bathrooms: 6.0

4. 60 Chiltern Pl, Whitby, ON L1R 2E5

   • Sale Price: $1,575,000, Bedrooms: 5, Bathrooms: 4.5

5. 21 Cresser Ave, Whitby, ON L1P 1K1

   • Sale Price: $1,301,000, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 3.0

6. 146 Rivers Edge Pl, Whitby, ON L1R 0G5

   • Sale Price: $1,230,000, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 3.5

7. 30 Clair Ave, Whitby, ON L1M 2G8

   • Sale Price: $1,140,000, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 3.5

8. 124 Medland Ave, Whitby, ON L1P 1W7

   • Sale Price: $1,100,000, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 2.5

9. 9 Lurosa Cres, Whitby, ON L1R 3B1

   • Sale Price: $1,050,000, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 3.0

10. 108 Bridlewood Blvd, Whitby, ON L1R 0N2

    • Sale Price: $1,040,000, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 3.5

11. 8 Armilia Pl, Whitby, ON L1P 0N9

    • Sale Price: $1,001,000, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 2.5

12. 112 Candlebrook Dr, Whitby, ON L1R 2V7

    • Sale Price: $955,100, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 3.5

13. 14 Bonneta Crt, Whitby, ON L1P 1C5

    • Sale Price: $875,000, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 2.5

14. 426 Perry St, Whitby, ON L1N 4C3

    • Sale Price: $840,000, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 2.5

15. 58 Plantation Crt, Whitby, ON L1P 1R1

    • Sale Price: $835,000, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 2.5

16. 83 Magpie Way, Whitby, ON L1N 0K5

    • Sale Price: $792,000, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 3.0

17. 82 Salmon Way, Whitby, ON L1N 9M8

    • Sale Price: $775,000, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 2.5

18. 509 Ash St, Whitby, ON L1N 4B5

    • Sale Price: $760,786, Bedrooms: 3, Bathrooms: 2.0

19. 712 Rossland Rd E #608, Whitby, ON L1N 9E8

    • Sale Price: $575,000, Bedrooms: 2, Bathrooms: 2.0

The average selling price of these homes is approximately $1,218,837.

Source: Redfin.ca

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Whitby’s Obituaries for the Week

1. Ed Broadbent (1936 - 2024): Passed away in Ottawa at 87. Survived by partner Frances Abele, children Paul and Christine, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many relatives and friends.

2. David Kenneth Maynard (1950 - 2024): Died at 74 with family by his side. Loving husband of Wendy for over 26 years.

3. Brenda LaRocque-Hosking (1954 - 2024): Passed away at home. Leaves behind son Mitchel, siblings, nieces, nephews, and was predeceased by her sons Chad and Cooper, and brothers Michael and Ronnie.

4. Susan Louise Drew (1949 - 2024): Passed at 75 in Oshawa. Beloved wife of Brian, mother to Stephen and Amy, and adored Nana.

5. Fernando Ponte Sr. (1949 - 2024): Died at 75, surrounded by family. Beloved husband of Angra, father of Mechelle, Liz, and Fernando Jr.

6. Heather Anne Holland (2024): Passed in sleep after battling cancer, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa. Daughter of Orville and the late Barbara Holland.

7. Dorothy Kitch-Churchill (1938 - 2024): Died at 86 in Oshawa. Loving mother of Steven (predeceased) and Tracy, and cherished grandmother.

8. Luigi Cosentino (1936 - 2024): Passed at 87 in Oshawa. Beloved husband of the late Rosina, father of Ernestina and Francesco, and remembered by grandchildren and great-grandson.

9. William Bernard Deveaux (1933 - 2024): Died at 91 with family by his side. Loving husband of Anne for 71 years, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

10. Margaret Leonard (1950 - 2024): Passed peacefully at 74. Beloved wife of Dennis, mother of JP and Clair, and grandmother.

11. Joan Evelyn Blight-Miller (1947 - 2024): Passed just before her 77th birthday. Loving mother to Joe and Debbie, and proud Gramma of Victoria.

12. Audrey Ellen Heitzner (1930 - 2024): Died in her 94th year. Predeceased by husband Cyril, loved mother of Gary, Annette, Cathy, Mike, and Laurie.

13. Allan Tamblyn (1932 - 2024): Passed in his 92nd year. Beloved husband of Judith, father of John, Stephen, Alison, Lesley, and the late Barbara.

14. Werner Jurewitsch (2024): Passed surrounded by wife Lydia and son Brian. Predeceased by siblings Zigfried, Sigrid, and Ingrid.

15. Carolyn Stevens (2024): Died unexpectedly at Lakeridge Health Port Perry. Beloved wife of the late Donald Stevens.

16. Paul Joseph Hunt (1944 - 2024): Passed in Oshawa. Immigrant from England, survived by children Jeffrey, Georgina, Michael, and granddaughter Samantha.

17. Lloyd Leslie Cowan (1955 - 2024): Died after battling Cancer, surrounded by siblings. Leaves behind mother Mary Colling, three sons, and granddaughters.

18. Kathleen Slater (1938 - 2024): Passed at 86, reunited with husband Peter.

19. Leo Cutler (2024): Died comforted by family at Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry. Beloved husband of the late Marjorie, loving father.

20. Margaret Ann Carmichael (2024): Passed at Northumberland Hills Hospital. Beloved wife of the late Ken, proud mother of Graham, Elizabeth, and Andrew.

21. Anita Onyskiw (1930 - 2024): Died at 94 at Lakeridge Health Centre in Oshawa. Beloved wife of the late Andrew.

22. Catherine Alice Goverde (1958 - 2024): Passed suddenly at 65. Survived by sisters Margaret, Jean, and Lloydene.

23. Wanda N. March (1956 - 2024): Passed surrounded by family. Survived by husband Calvin, daughters Elizabeth and Jennifer, and siblings.

24. Patrick Anthony McSwiggan (1935 - 2024): Died at 89 after a short illness. Beloved husband of the late Irene, loving father and grandfather.

25. Isabella “Anne” Link (1938 - 2024): Passed after a short illness. Born in 1938, Anne was a cherished family member.

26. Lakshmi Pamidi (2024): Passed surrounded by family. Survived by husband Chinna, children Sushmita and Ashwin.

27. Pietro “Peter” Locatelli (1925 - 2024): Passed at 98, beloved husband of 70 years to Leonina, father to Carla and Cristina, and cherished grandfather and great-grandfather.

28. Robert “Bob” Francis Williamson: Passed on January 20, 2024. Son of the late Thomas and Marion Williamson, loving husband of 50 years to Beverley.

29. Philomena Dankmeyer (1935 - 2024): Died peacefully at 88, beloved wife of 63 years to Robert Dankmeyer.

30. Dawn-Marie Ann "Donna" Giguere (1953 - 2024): Passed after battling pancreatic cancer, cherished daughter of the late Vernon and Enid LeMercier DuQuesnay, and beloved wife of the late Shawn.

31. Vladimir (Vlade) Kimevski (1944 - 2024): Passed away, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved husband, brother, father, dedo, uncle, and friend.

32. Alan Charles Payne (1935 - 2024): Retired General Motors employee, passed at 89, beloved husband of Jackie for 63 years.

33. James Joseph Julien McKenzie (1956 - 2024): Passed peacefully, predeceased by wife Andrea and sister Carol, loving dad of Alexander and Alannah.

34. Roman Ritkowski (1935 - 2024): Passed unexpectedly at 89, predeceased by wife Millie, survived by son Robert and proud Dzia Dzia.

35. Donald Curtis Pelton (1938 - 2024): Passed away, beloved husband of the late Shirley, loving father of Donna, predeceased by siblings.

36. Mabel Christine Matheson (1922 - 2024): Passed one month shy of her 102nd birthday, dearly missed by her church family and friends.

37. Herbert Willi Probst (1940 - 2024): Born in Germany, Herb led a full and interesting life, passing away at 83.

38. Ronit Fabro (née Goldhaber): Passed peacefully with family by her side, loving wife of Paul Fabro, mother of David Catriel and Mia Spiegelman.

39. John Wayne Stark (1951 - 2024): Passed after battling Parkinson’s, known as “Tarz”, son of Dorothy & the late John Stark.

40. Florence Forsyth (nee Wright): Passed at Lakeview Manor in Beaverton, predeceased by husband Donald Stephen Forsyth and sons Donald and Lawrence.

41. Gail Matthews (1938 - 2024): Passed at 85, known for her kind heart and dedication to her family.

42. Norma Jane Lawrence (1937 - 2024): Embarked on her celestial journey at 86, leaving behind a legacy of love.

43. Frederick Harding (1928 - 2024): Passed at 95, beloved husband of the late Barbara, loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

44. Alan Gerry Glaspell (1944 - 2024): Passed peacefully at home at 80, much-loved husband of Debbie, proud dad, and cherished grandpa.

45. Damien James (D.J.) Smith (1980 - 2024): Passed suddenly, predeceased by his mom Jenny and father Leslie.

46. Grace Kollaard (nee Hoen) (1923 - 2024): Passed at 101, reunited with husband George, loving mother of Mike, Betty & Mario, and Bob.

Source: Canadian Obituaries

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What annual sports event is hosted in Whitby, attracting teams from across North America?

• A) The Whitby Dunlops Hockey Tournament

• B) The Silver Stick Hockey Tournament

• C) Durham Region Soccer Tournament

• D) The Whitby Regatta

Answer posted below.

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January 28th

• Paint N’ Sip - 11:00AM-2:00PM

• Cribbage 55+ - 7:00PM-9:30PM

• Paint Nite: The Original Paint and Sip Party - 7:00PM-9:00PM

• Ottawa 67s at Oshawa Generals - 6:05PM

January 29th

• Cribbage Tournament - 1:00PM-4:00PM

January 30th

• Chess 55+ - 7:00PM-9:30PM

January 31st

• Craft Group 55+ - 1:00 - 3:30PM

• Duplicate Bridge 55+ - 2:15PM-4:15PM

• Brock Street Brewery Trivia Night - 7:00PM

• Darts 55+ - 7:00PM-9:30PM

February 1st

• Duplicate Bridge 55+ - 12:45PM-4:00PM

• Bid Euchre 55+ - 6:30PM-9:30PM

• Bingo 55+ - 6:30-9:30PM

• Fostering Harmony Between Domestic and Wild Canids - Zoom Webinar - 6:30PM

• Together We Rise Durham: Black History, Intersectionality and Joy - 6:00PM-8:00PM

• Brock Street Brewery Euchre Night - 7:00PM

February 2nd

• The Neighbours Project ART HIVE with the LivingRoom - 12:00PM-3:30PM

• Razzle Dazzle Bingo - 1:00PM-4:00PM

• Darts 55+ - 7:00PM-9:30PM

• Dino Stakos Live Music - 8:00PM

February 3rd

• Brock Street Yoga - 9:30AM

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

• Free Public Skating at Donevan Recreation Complex - 1:00PM-2:50PM

• Winter Walk - 1:00PM-3:00PM

• 17th Annual Black History Month Celebration - 4:00PM-9:00PM

• Sarah Faackerley Live Music - 8:00PM

February 9th

• Couples Charcuterie Workshop - 6:00PM-7:30PM

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