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July 2021

Statement from Regional Chair
John Henry on Canada Day
The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer:

“In light of the recent discoveries in British Columbia and Saskatchewan, and in solidarity and respect for Indigenous neighbours, on Canada Day I encourage all residents to take this time to reflect on our relationships—both past and present—with Indigenous Peoples, and to move forward with reconciliation in our hearts, minds and actions.

The unacceptable truth is that there have been discoveries like this before—and there will be more discoveries in the future.

I am grateful for the work Indigenous leaders are undertaking to search more former residential school sites, and we continue to stand in solidarity with Indigenous Peoples.

As Indigenous History month comes to a close on Canada Day, I am reminded yet again that the time is far overdue to examine our relationships with Indigenous Peoples, and the lands we have the privilege to call our home.

On June 21, Indigenous Peoples Day, the Region installed a flagpole to permanently fly the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation flag at Regional Headquarters, in recognition of the lands on which we reside and work.

While this is a gesture we are proud of, we know much more work is required to build meaningful relationships with Indigenous neighbours that uphold the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action in all our spaces.

We have always prided ourselves on being one of the best countries in the world because we are open, honest, and welcoming. We need to uphold that reputation this Canada Day, and take this time to be open and honest with ourselves, and our historic and present-day relationship with the First Peoples of this land.”
Be part of the first-ever Scugog Arts Mural Marathon
On July 15 to 17 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., painter participants will take on the challenge of completing a continuous mural across multiple large wooden boards. People of all ages are welcome to participate, taking two-hour shifts to create public art that celebrates Indigenous culture.

When finished, the mural boards will become an installation on the east wall of the Scugog Arts Space at 175 B Queen St in Downtown Port Perry, where they will remain until the arts council can do it all over again. The mural is guaranteed to add to the vibrancy and quality of life in the Scugog community, drawing in visitors and locals alike.

Jon Colwell, local artist and Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation band member, will draw the design in a coloring book style allowing for anyone to join the fun. Painters will need to register and get pledges in order to participate. There is a minimum donation of $50 during the registration process that earns participants a Lake Scugog hat from the new Durham is Home collection by Durham Tourism. The fundraiser supports operating expenses at Scugog Arts.

Photo by:
Gale D'Souza, Photographic Touch
Canadian Automotive Museum mural project
Two new murals are being created behind the Canadian Automotive Museum. This work is part of the Signs of Life Mural Project, which is adding street art throughout downtown Oshawa to brighten streetscape. The designs for these murals were created by local artist Dani Crosby and the painting was done by Chad Tyson. Remember to check out these new pieces the next time you visit the museum as they are only visible from the back parking lot.
Theatre on the Ridge: Keeping the Doors Open
With the partnership support of Central Counties Tourism and Gray Bear Creative, Theatre on the Ridge has created Keeping the Doors Open, a short documentary video of the company’s response to COVID-19 and keeping theatre live in Port Perry during the summer of 2020.

Live theatre became one of the first economic and cultural casualties of the pandemic in mid March 2020. Almost overnight, theatre companies large and small, made the difficult but necessary decision to cancel entire seasons and summer festivals. Keeping the Doors Open looks at how Theatre on the Ridge adapted to rapid and constant change to present a unique outdoor season of live theatre and keep the company moving forward. A lot was learned and is now being applied as Theatre on the Ridge prepares for its second pandemic season of safely bringing live theatre to audiences.
Save and spend in Durham Region this summer
It’s the summer to staycation! To help plan your ultimate summer staycation in Durham Region, Central Counties Tourism has created an exciting new deal with the Save and Spend in YDH program.
 
Beginning on July 5, choose from one of Durham’s participating hotels and receive a $100 discount on your stay of two nights or more.
 
Be sure to apply the special promo code at the time of booking to receive your discount. Also, this deal is offered for a limited quantity only, so be sure to get in there and book your stay before your desired hotel is sold out!
 
Now that you’ll stay, it’s time to play!           
 
Check out other suggestions for things to see and do in your own backyard with more staycation packages.
For unique trip ideas or to plan your perfect day, visit DurhamTourism.ca, or call 1-800-413-0017. If this information is required in an accessible format, contact Durham Tourism.