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🚨 School Safety, Clean Energy, & Charity Games: This Week in Durham and Whitby

Issue #064

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Whitby Thrive
02 Feb

Issue #064 - February 2, 2024

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In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

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Urgent Calls for Increased Education Funding After Child Wanders from Ajax School

Captured in a metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia primary school, this photograph depicts a typical classroom scene, where an audience of school children were seated on the floor before a teacher at the front of the room, who was reading an illustrated storybook, during one of the scheduled classroom sessions. Assisting the instructor were two female students to her left, and a male student on her right, who was holding up the book, while the seated classmates were raising their hands to answer questions related to the story just read.

A concerning incident in which a child with autism strayed from his school in Ajax has ignited calls for increased funding and staffing in Ontario schools. Neelam Rasheid shared her son Zak's ordeal, highlighting a significant gap in safety measures for students with special needs. Advocates and opposition members argue this reflects a systemic issue of underfunding and understaffing, affecting the most vulnerable students. The incident has led to demands for an investigation and a reevaluation of resource allocation to ensure the safety and educational needs of all students are adequately met. Durham Radio News - Read source.

Durham Region Advances Clean Energy Goals with New Building Energy Benchmarking Program

Photo credit: facebook.com/TownofWhitby

The Durham Region has embarked on a significant initiative to cut down greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and pave the way for a clean energy future, with deep energy retrofits identified as a crucial component of this strategy. In an effort to extend its environmental efforts beyond residential areas, the Region introduced the Durham Greener Homes program in April 2022, specifically targeting deep energy retrofits for single-family homes. The focus has now broadened to encompass commercial, institutional, and multi-unit residential buildings as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.

Recognizing the importance of energy benchmarking as a foundational step towards enhancing GHG performance in the building sector, Durham has partnered with Introba, a consultancy firm, to facilitate the creation of a building energy benchmarking program. This program aims to standardize energy usage assessments across commercial, institutional, and multi-unit residential properties throughout the Region.

The project's phases included:

  • Analyzing the current benchmarking environment within Ontario.

  • Conducting a review of best practices from other benchmarking initiatives.

  • Assessing the characteristics of Durham’s building inventory and identifying key market segments.

  • Drafting a structural blueprint for the program.

  • Engaging with stakeholders to refine the program design, understanding the unique value an energy benchmarking program brings to Durham Region, and identifying both the challenges and solutions to encourage participation.

  • Formulating final recommendations for the program’s design and implementation.

The efforts culminated with the Region commissioning Windfall Ecology Centre, a pioneer in building retrofit accelerator programs for over two decades, to finalize the program design and launch a robust Institutional and Commercial Building Benchmarking and Disclosure Program. This collaboration underscores Durham Region's proactive approach in achieving substantial energy savings and GHG reductions across its diverse building sectors. Read more.

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

Whitby Mall Carjacking Attempt Thwarted: Police Seek Suspects

A carjacking attempt at Whitby Mall's parking lot on January 27, 2024, was foiled when the victim, who was selling his car online, escaped attackers in a black SUV. The assailants, including a young male buyer and masked individuals, tried to forcibly take his vehicle but fled the scene. No injuries were reported. Police seek information on the suspects, including a young white male and a black Toyota SUV.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Reeves of the Robbery Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5355.

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.

Dog Dispute Turns Violent in Oshawa, Suspect Sought by Police

A dispute over dogs led to an assault in Oshawa, with the victim sustaining serious injuries. The incident occurred near Wilson Road South and Dieppe Avenue, after a man with a German Shepherd was confronted by the property owner. Police are searching for a suspect described as a Black male, 25-35 years old, and are appealing for witnesses. Read more.

Whitby Home Invasion: Police Search for Four Suspects

Four suspects are sought by police following a home invasion in Whitby on January 27, 2024. The assailants, who entered a residence at gunpoint, stole valuables and fled. The victims, who contacted police from a gas station, were unharmed. Police believe the incident is isolated, posing no further public threat. Descriptions of the suspects have been released, and the community is urged to provide any helpful information.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Kowalski of the Central West Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2421.

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. Ready more.

 

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Oshawa Generals and Superstore Team Up for Charity Game Night, Aiming to Feed One Million Kids

Oshawa Generals

Image credit: chl.ca

This coming Sunday, February 4th, marks a special event as the Oshawa Generals team up with Real Canadian Superstore for their yearly #CHLJerseyContest Game Night. During this unique night, all the jerseys worn in the game will be put up for auction. The proceeds from this auction will be entirely donated to the President’s Choice Children’s Charity. Over the years, the Real Canadian Superstore's jersey contests have successfully raised more than $375,000, contributing significantly to the charity's goal of feeding one million children annually. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets now for an opportunity to witness the jerseys in action on the ice. Learn more.

Summer Jobs Alert: Camp Counsellors Needed – Fun and Friendship Await!

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🌈 Oshawa Summer Camp Counselor Positions Open! 🌈

Transform your summer into an adventure! Join the City of Oshawa as a Summer Camp Counselor and get paid to enjoy endless fun, acquire invaluable work experience, and create friendships that last a lifetime.

Act fast! Applications close on March 3rd. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to make your summer memorable. Read more.

Durham College's Volleyball Team Nets Another Victory Against Fleming Phoenix

Photo credit: durhamlords.com

The Durham College women's volleyball team celebrated their third consecutive win by defeating the Fleming Phoenix in straight sets, marking their seventh 3-0 win of the season. Standout player Amanda Larsen led in kills and blocks, contributing to the victory. The team is set to end their regular season against the Loyalist Lancers, with a ceremony honoring graduating seniors. Read more.

Lords Fall to Fleming Phoenix in Tight Men's Volleyball Match

Photo credit: durhamlords.com

The Lords experienced a difficult defeat in men's volleyball against the Fleming Phoenix, losing in three straight sets. Key players like William Egan and Jack Egan showed commendable performances despite the loss. The team looks forward to their season's final home game against the Loyalist Lancers, where they will celebrate their graduating seniors. Read more.

What is a unique feature of Cullen Central Park in Whitby?

  • A) It contains a historical battlefield.

  • B) It has an internationally acclaimed rose garden.

  • C) It features a large natural amphitheater.

  • D) It is home to a rare species of oak trees.

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Trivia Answer

Correct Answer: C) It features a large natural amphitheater

Cullen Central Park in Whitby is known for its large natural amphitheater, which is used for various community events and performances.