In this issue of Whitby Thrive…

☀️ Today’s Weather in Whitby 

 🔥 Canada on High Alert for 2024 Wildfires, Echoing Last Year's Record Season

 🏡 Government's Economic Plan Boosts Homeownership and Construction in Toronto

 🚨 Dramatic Police Chase in Pickering Ends in Arrest of Three Vehicle Theft Suspects

🚔 Email Threat Prompts Police Investigation at Bolton C. Falby PS in Ajax

 🏓 Whitby's 55+ Recreation Program: Fostering an Active Senior Community

🏆 Trivia

 🥅 Ridgebacks Dominate in Inaugural Carriage Cup, Defeating York Lions 4-1

 📅 Whitby Events

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• Trivia

• Events

• Business Directory

• Trivia Answer

Canada on High Alert for 2024 Wildfires, Echoing Last Year's Record Season

Canadian Forest Service scientist Piyush Jain warns of a potentially severe 2024 wildfire season, paralleling conditions from 2023's record-breaking wildfires. Last year saw the most significant number of evacuations and area burned, driven by drought, early snowmelt, and climate change. The impact on air quality was felt nationwide, with regions experiencing varying levels of poor air conditions. Over 15 million hectares were burned, predominantly in Quebec, Northwest Territories, Alberta, and British Columbia. Read more.

Government's Economic Plan Boosts Homeownership and Construction in Toronto

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and Minister Marci Ien visited Canary Landing in Toronto to highlight Canada's economic plan's success in improving homeownership accessibility and accelerating home building. The plan supports the construction of 2,510 rental homes, including 685 affordable ones. Significant investments have been made in projects like Maple House and Cherry House, in addition to a large-scale agreement with Toronto to fast-track thousands of new homes. Read more.

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

Dramatic Police Chase in Pickering Ends in Arrest of Three Vehicle Theft Suspects

Three men were arrested in Pickering following a stolen vehicle incident and police pursuit. The theft occurred early on January 9, 2024, leading to a chase that ended near Finch Avenue and Shadow Place. The suspects, all from Quebec, face various charges including possession of stolen property, flight from police, and breach of conditions. Two suspects were held for a bail hearing, and authorities are seeking further information from the public. Read more.

Email Threat Prompts Police Investigation at Bolton C. Falby PS in Ajax

Police are investigating a threat received by email at Bolton C. Falby Public School in Ajax. The school was placed on a hold and secure and eventually evacuated as the investigation continued. More information to come. Read more.

Whitby's 55+ Recreation Program: Fostering an Active Senior Community

The Town of Whitby offers an exciting and enriching 55+ Recreation program designed for adults aged 55 and older. This program is a testament to the town's commitment to keeping its senior residents connected, active, and engaged through a variety of recreational activities.

Programs include:

• A wide range of drop-in recreation programs such as Bingo, Cards, Darts, and Scrabble.

• Affordable courses in fitness, creative arts, dance, computers, and general interest, all designed for adults 55+.

• Wellness and lifestyle programs.

• Special events throughout the year.

• Access to Mingles, the on-site café offering hot meals.

• A lounge equipped with computers and printers, a lending library of books and puzzles, all free for members.

• Regular newsletters and weekly emails with up-to-date local information.

• Numerous volunteer opportunities.

The main hub for 55+ Recreation is the Whitby 55+ Recreation Centre, located at 801 Brock Street South. Additionally, the Brooklin Community Centre and Library, along with other community centres in Whitby, host various 55+ programs.

For more information:

• Contact Whitby 55+ Recreation Centre: 905-668-1424, email: [email protected]

• Brooklin Community Centre and Library: 905-655-2010

• For details on subsidized programs: email [email protected] or call 905-655-2010

More information.

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Ridgebacks Dominate in Inaugural Carriage Cup, Defeating York Lions 4-1

The Ridgebacks men's hockey team triumphed over the York Lions 4-1 in the first Carriage Cup event. The match, held at the Tribute Communities Centre, started with a ceremonial puck drop featuring local dignitaries. Braiden Koran led the Ridgebacks' early lead, followed by goals from Sam Gillis, James White, and Sean Ross. The York Lions scored once. The match became more physical towards the end, concluding with the Ridgebacks hoisting the Carriage Cup trophy. Read more.

Historic Downtown Whitby is known for its unique blend of charm and vibrancy. Which of the following features is a notable characteristic of Downtown Whitby?

• A) It is home to the oldest university in Ontario.

• B) It boasts a variety of public art installations throughout its streets.

• C) It is the location of Ontario's largest outdoor shopping mall.

• D) It hosts the annual Ontario Technology Expo.

Answer posted below.

January 13th

• -

January 14th

• OPG Sunday: Blast from the Past - 10:30AM-12:30PM

January 15th

• -

January 16th

• Durham College Program Information Night - Oshawa - 5:30PM-7:30PM

January 17th

• Durham College Program Information Night - Whitby - 5:30PM-7:30PM

January 18th

• Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Pain Workshop (55+) - 9:30AM-12:00PM

• Quick and Healthy Snack Foods with Sylvia (55+) - 1:30PM-2:30PM

January 21st

• BMO Free Public Skate - 2:00PM-3:45PM

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