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  • 🎯 Whitby’s Strategic Success; $2.5M for Downtown Housing; Ridgebacks' Close Call; Inclusive Basketball Event & More!

🎯 Whitby’s Strategic Success; $2.5M for Downtown Housing; Ridgebacks' Close Call; Inclusive Basketball Event & More!

Issue #062

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Whitby Thrive
31 Jan

Issue #062 - January 31, 2024

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In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

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Whitby’s Community Strategic Plan Marks Notable First-Year Achievements

Photo credit: whitby.ca

Mayor Elizabeth Roy of Whitby has proudly shared the first annual update on the key achievements of the town's Community Strategic Plan. Launched less than a year ago, the plan, heavily influenced by community feedback, has seen remarkable progress, with over 90% of its 62 action items either underway or completed. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of the Town Council, staff, and community partners.

Significant accomplishments include:

  • A partnership with the Oshawa Clinic Group to bring ten new family physicians to the soon-to-open West Whitby Health Centre, which is currently accepting patient enrolment.

  • Collaboration with Feed the Need in Durham to establish a market model food bank at Iroquois Park Sports Centre, set to open this spring.

  • Ongoing construction of the Whitby Sports Complex, with foundational and structural work progressing well.

  • Support for new tourism initiatives, such as the Town Brewery pop-up at the historic waterfront Pump House, the Culture Pop-Up Series (including Sunset Tango), and the second annual Whitby Food Guide to promote local eateries.

  • Securing $2.6 million in funding for enhancements along the Waterfront Trail.

These actions align with Whitby's vision of becoming a naturally beautiful community with green spaces, a vibrant waterfront, thriving downtowns, a safe environment, and being an exceptional place to live, work, and explore. Read more.

Whitby Allocates $2.5 Million to Spur Downtown Residential Development

Photo credit: whitby.ca

Whitby Town Council has made a strategic move to boost residential development in Downtown Whitby by allocating $2.5 million, 10% of its Federal Housing Accelerator Fund grant, towards relevant projects. This funding will be channeled through the Town’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP), a program designed to invigorate local businesses and stimulate new investments in the area.

The focus of the investment will be on High Density Residential and Mixed-use Residential development projects. These projects are expected to provide new housing options within close proximity to downtown businesses and amenities, as well as along rapid transit routes. The initiative aims to foster a more connected and pedestrian-friendly community.

Mayor Elizabeth Roy expressed enthusiasm about the quick initiation of efforts to create more housing options following the receipt of $24.9 million from the Housing Accelerator Fund. She emphasized the importance of residential development in Downtown Whitby for revitalization, increasing foot traffic and spending for local businesses, and providing more housing choices near amenities and rapid transit. This funding is seen as a crucial step in addressing the housing crisis both locally and across Canada. Read more.

Fatal Collision in Uxbridge Claims Life, Leaves Multiple Injured

On Monday, January 29th, a severe collision in Uxbridge involving two SUVs resulted in the death of a 32-year-old woman and critical injuries to several others, including a 1-year-old child. The incident occurred at the intersection of Concession Road 6 and Sandford Road. Both vehicles' occupants suffered serious injuries, with several transferred to trauma centers in Toronto. The DRPS Collision Investigation Unit is conducting an in-depth investigation, and authorities are seeking information from the public.

Anyone with information about this incident or witnessed this collision is asked to call D/CSt, Riley of the Collision Investigation Unit at 905-579-1520 ext. 5216.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward. Read more.

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Pickering Man Arrested After Failing to Evade Police in Ajax, Faces Multiple Charges

A dramatic police encounter in Ajax resulted in the arrest of Uriah Edusei-Needham, 24, from Pickering, for several offenses including impaired driving and firearm possession. The incident occurred when Edusei-Needham, found in an idling Mercedes, attempted to escape from the police, leading to a minor collision. There were no injuries to the officers, and the suspect was taken into custody without further incident. The police are seeking additional information and offer a potential reward for valuable tips.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Cst. Pitcher of the Central West Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 3053.

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.

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Ontario SPCA Invites You to 'Bake' a Difference with Cupcake Day Party

Ontario SPCA is inviting everyone to sweeten up their support for animals in need by hosting a Cupcake Day Party. This delicious and delightful fundraiser is an opportunity for individuals and workplaces to "bake" a difference for the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. The process is simple: register for free, personalize your Personal Fundraising Centre, and start collecting donations from family, friends, and colleagues.

Cupcake Day isn't just about indulging in tasty treats; it's a meaningful way to contribute to the care of animals in Ontario. It's a guilt-free excuse to enjoy cupcakes while supporting a great cause.

Cupcake Day is more than just a fundraiser; it's a fun and engaging way to bring people together for a worthy cause. Whether in person or virtually, every cupcake sold and every dollar raised helps provide essential care to animals in need across Ontario. Read more.

Ridgebacks Women's Hockey Suffers Narrow Loss to Queen's Gaels in Kingston

Photo credit: goridgebacks.com

The Ridgebacks women's hockey team faced a close defeat against the Queen's Gaels, with a final score of 2-1 in Kingston. After falling behind early, the Ridgebacks equalized in the second period but ultimately conceded a late goal. Their next game is at home against the TMU Bold. Read more.

Durham College and Ontario Tech Host Inclusive Basketball Event for Black History Month

Photo credit: durhamlords.com

The "Allies in Equity – Removing Barriers" basketball tournament, part of Black History Month, will be hosted by Durham College and Ontario Tech University. The event includes sports competitions, workshops on inclusivity in sports, and fundraising for BIPOC community student bursaries. This even is scheduled for February 2nd-3rd, 2024. Read more.

What is the primary function of the Whitby Marina?

  • A) Commercial fishing

  • B) Private yachting club

  • C) Public recreation and boating

  • D) Military naval base

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Trivia Answer

Correct Answer: C) Public recreation and boating

The Whitby Marina primarily serves as a hub for public recreation and boating, offering facilities and services for a variety of water-related activities.