A Spring alert!

Dear Scugog neighbours

As you race through our community, please remember this is the time of year our wildlife will be making their way home to have their babies and teach them the ropes.  Last year, unfortunately, I came across two goslings that had been run over, in the bike lane, along Highway 7A as they were making their way to the causeway, for a swim.

Please take the time and care to not drive distracted and be aware of our wildlife trying to make it in our rushed world.  According to Hope for Wildlife Sanctuary, 98% of injuries and deaths to wildlife are caused by humans. It is illegal to kill migratory birds, so please pay attention and let the geese (and other critters) cross the road.

Yours truly,

A Spring alert!

Dear Scugog neighbours

As you race through our community, please remember this is the time of year our wildlife will be making their way home to have their babies and teach them the ropes.  Last year, unfortunately, I came across two goslings that had been run over, in the bike lane, along Highway 7A as they were making their way to the causeway, for a swim.

Please take the time and care to not drive distracted and be aware of our wildlife trying to make it in our rushed world.  According to Hope for Wildlife Sanctuary, 98% of injuries and deaths to wildlife are caused by humans. It is illegal to kill migratory birds, so please pay attention and let the geese (and other critters) cross the road.

Yours truly,

Tom Deli’s

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I have two incredible shout outs! It just goes to show you how important the community is!

Dear Editor

Sunday March 30 I got called to deliver a baby at Lakeridge Health Port Perry.  I travelled down Simcoe and was stopped by lines down on; Simcoe St. N.  As I headed down the 4th concession, multiple trees stopped me again across the road.  But Bowen Nottingham-Blonge was behind me with a chainsaw in his truck and he and his partner, along with two hydro workers and another good Samaritan, cleared over 20 trees along two miles of road to get me to the hospital in time.  Thank you all so much!  You were all fabulous and the baby is beautiful and healthy!

Then on Monday March 31 at 11 p.m., the Brock volunteer firefighters saved a dog from going through our pond.  Fortunately owner and dog were reunited and all is well!

Kim Ferguson

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A New Youth Social Skills Program is happening with Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Durham thanks to a $100,000 OTF Grant Ontario Government

Dear Editor

On Friday April 11, local MPP Todd McCarthy met with representatives from Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Durham (BBBSND) to hear how their $100,000 Seed grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) will help children and youth develop essential social skills. The 12-month grant, awarded last fall, is enabling BBBSND to create and implement a team-building program designed to help children and youth strengthen their ability to collaborate with peers. 

“Our government believes that organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Durham enrich the lives of residents in our communities and play an important role in mentoring and inspiring the youth who participate in the programs” said Todd McCarthy, MPP for Durham. “As the Ontario Trillium Foundation is funded by the Ontario government, this Seed grant will assist the BBBS of North Durham in launching its Connect and Thrive program, equipping youth with the essential skills which will aid in their social and emotional development.”

Following extended periods of social isolation during the pandemic, many young people have struggled with interpersonal skills after spending significant time in virtual learning environments. These developmental years are crucial, making programs like this invaluable in fostering connection and social growth. The OTF Seed grant supports BBBSND’s efforts in two North Durham communities, with the potential for expansion. Funds from the grant are helping with some key staffing roles, purchasing program materials, hosting a workshop, and helping with some administrative costs. The program provides a fun and engaging experience that combines physical activity with teamwork, encouraging participants to support one another in a safe and inclusive environment.

Empower Hour is a new program that will be run in the North Durham schools we serve, along with a free, co-ed after-school series running for six weeks. The program will take place every Tuesday from May 6 to June 10, 2025, from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. at the Scout Hall, located at 15585 Simcoe Street, Port Perry.

To register a child, please email:
alyssa.lounds@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

Sincerely, Jackie Granger, BBBSND Digital Communications & Marketing Coordinator

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