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🏆 Durham's Visionary Award, Whitby Sports Milestone & Protect Yourself from Romance Scams

Issue #077

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Whitby Thrive
15 Feb

Issue #077 - February 15, 2024

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In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

🏆 Trivia

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Invest Durham Wins EDCO Award for Visionary Economic Development Plan

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The Economic Development and Tourism Division of Durham Region, known as Invest Durham, has been honored with an Award of Excellence by the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO). This recognition was awarded for their strategic initiative, "Ready Set Future: A PLACE Blueprint for Durham," a comprehensive strategy and action plan aimed at shaping the region's economic future. The award highlights Invest Durham's forward-thinking approach to economic development, focusing on a 30-year vision and a detailed five-year action plan intended to lay a solid foundation for growth.

"Ready Set Future" was selected in the category of Planning and Strategic Development for urban populations. The strategy was formulated in partnership with community stakeholders and is grounded in the acronym PLACE, which stands for People, Location, Acceleration, Creativity, and Enablers. It outlines Durham’s long-term goals, principles, and priorities, charting a course towards a robust and resilient economy that fosters business growth, innovation, and collaborative partnerships.

The plan is publicly accessible and can be viewed at InvestDurham.ca/strategy, offering insights into the region's blueprint for attracting investment, talent, and promoting a creative identity, all while prioritizing sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Read more.

Whitby Sports Complex Construction on Schedule, Hits Key Milestones

Photo credit: fb.com/TownofWhitby

The construction of the much-anticipated Whitby Sports Complex is moving forward as planned, hitting several significant milestones. The project has already seen the completion of crucial initial phases such as excavation, site grading, and the installation of stormwater piping. Additionally, the underground foundations have been laid, and construction of the arena and dressing room walls is well underway or finished.

This new facility is set to be a cutting-edge, multi-purpose venue designed to support inclusive sports and community activities. It aims to serve as a vibrant hub where individuals of all ages and abilities can gather to engage in physical activities, connect with one another, and participate in various programs.

For those interested in keeping up with the progress of this exciting project and receiving future updates, you're encouraged to subscribe at connectwhitby.ca/sportscomplex.

OPP Warns of Rising Romance Scams Involving Cryptocurrency

As Valentine's comes to a close, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) caution individuals about the heightened risk of romance scams, particularly those involving cryptocurrency schemes. Fraudsters increasingly exploit dating apps and social media platforms to establish trust with potential victims. Once a connection is made, these scammers often claim to be involved in lucrative cryptocurrency ventures, offering to help their victims generate significant returns.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) has reported staggering losses due to romance frauds in 2023, with Canadians losing $50.3 million and Ontarians alone being scammed out of over $21 million.

To combat this growing issue, the OPP has issued several safety tips to help individuals protect themselves online:

  • Avoid accepting friend requests from strangers.

  • Never transfer money to someone you have not met in person.

  • Protect your personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, Social Insurance Number (SIN), and banking details.

  • Do not allow remote access to your devices.

  • Exercise caution with cryptocurrency transactions, as they are often irreversible.

  • Ensure any investment company is registered with the Provincial Securities Agency or verified through the National Registration Search Tool at aretheyregistered.ca.

Victims of fraud, or those suspecting fraudulent activity, are urged to contact their local police service or report the incident to the CAFC at 1-888-495-8501, regardless of financial loss. Read more.

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

Police Seek Public's Help to Identify Suspect in Oshawa Bar Assault

Photo credit: drps.ca

Police are searching for a suspect following an assault at Chaser’s Bar and Grill in Oshawa, with the public asked to assist. The white male suspect, described as 6 feet tall with a medium build, balding or shaved head, and tattoos on his left hand, fled after the incident. The victim sustained minor injuries.

Anyone who can identify the suspect or has any information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Arthurworrey of the East Division Criminal Investigations Branch 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.

Search Intensifies for Missing 43-Year-Old Woman in Oshawa

Photo credit: x.com/drps

The search is underway for 43-year-old Natasha, described as 5'8", with a thin build, brown hair, and hazel eyes, believed to be in Oshawa. Authorities are concerned for her wellbeing and are asking for the public's assistance in locating her. Read more.

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Transform Your Home Heating and Cool Down Your Energy Bills with Heat Pump Grants

Photo credit: fb.com/TownofWhitby

Homeowners considering a switch from oil heating to a more energy-efficient heat pump system have a great opportunity to save on costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program is offering grants of up to $10,000 to support this transition. This initiative not only aims to lower energy bills but also contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with environmental sustainability goals. Moreover, the heat pump units installed under this program offer the added benefit of providing air conditioning, making them an attractive option for year-round climate control in homes.

For more detailed information on the program and how to apply for the grant, interested homeowners can visit the official site: natural-resources.canada.ca/oil-to-heat-pump/24775.

Discover the Flavourful World of Edible Flowers in Gardening Webinar Series

Photo credit: fb.com/TownofWhitby

The beloved Gardening Webinar Series is making its return, kicking off with a fascinating session on Edible Flowers. This initial webinar of the year promises to enlighten participants on the vibrant world of culinary flowers that are safe to consume. Scheduled for March 6 at 7 p.m., the event will be accessible via Zoom, offering a convenient way to explore how certain flowers can transform meals with their distinctive flavors and colorful presentation.

Edible flowers, while a delightful addition to a variety of dishes, require knowledge and caution, as not all flowers are suitable for consumption. This webinar aims to guide enthusiasts on how to safely incorporate these natural beauties into their cooking, enhancing both the visual appeal and taste of their food.

For more information on this webinar and to join the series, interested individuals can visit whitby.ca/en/play/gardening-series.aspx.

Oshawa Generals Stunned in Overtime Again, Lose 2-1 to Owen Sound Attack

Photo credit: chl.ca

The Oshawa Generals faced a second consecutive overtime loss, this time falling 2-1 to the Owen Sound Attack. Jacob Oster made 22 saves, and Luca D’Amato scored for the Generals. Despite taking an early lead, Owen Sound quickly equalized and eventually clinched the game in overtime, courtesy of Colby Barlow's decisive goal. Read more.

In which country did the tradition of women proposing to men on Leap Day, often associated with Valentine's Day romance, originate?

  • A) Ireland

  • B) France

  • C) Italy

  • D) United States

February 11th

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February 19th

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Trivia Answer

Correct Answer: A) Ireland

The tradition of women proposing to men on Leap Day is said to have originated in Ireland. This unique custom is rooted in an old Irish legend involving St. Bridget and St. Patrick. St. Bridget complained to St. Patrick about women having to wait so long for a man to propose. St. Patrick then supposedly granted permission for women to propose marriage to men on February 29th, a day that occurs once every four years. This day, also known as Leap Day, became an opportunity for women to take the initiative in a leap year, which added an extra layer of tradition to the month of February's romantic customs.