DARRYL KNIGHT, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard BROCK: A proposal which could reshape how school boards are governed across Ontario is drawing concern at the municipal level, with Brock Council throwing its support behind a request for further oversight and public consultation. At its Monday, April 13th meeting, Brock Council endorsed a motion supporting the Durham District School Board (DDSB) in its call for the Ombudsman of Ontario to review the potenti

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard BROCK: Potholes, washouts, and soft shoulders have become a familiar, and frustrating, sight, across Brock’s rural concessions, this spring, prompting council to take urgent action, at a special meeting on Friday, April 17th. With more than 100 millimetres of recent rainfall and lingering frost beneath the surface, road conditions, across the township, have deteriorated rapidly in recent weeks, drawing concer

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter to The Standard BROCK: Sunshine, syrup, and strong community spirit defined a successful weekend at the 29th annual Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival, as thousands of visitors filled the downtown core, to celebrate one of Brock Township’s most cherished traditions. Saturday’s picture-perfect weather set the tone, with blue skies and warm spring sunshine drawing large crowds early in the day. Streets quickly filled with festival

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard BROCK: The 29th annual Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival is set to bring the sweet taste of tradition back to the heart of Sunderland, on Saturday, April 11th, and Sunday, April 12th. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., each day, visitors can take in a full weekend of maple-themed festivities, including: a bustling outdoor vendor market, live entertainment, hands-on demonstrations, and family-friendly attractions spread throughout the community. “The Sunderland

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard BROCK: The importance of collaboration and community-driven solutions was highlighted at a recent council meeting, as members heard an annual update from the North Durham Social Development Council (NDSDC). Presenters Nathan Gardner and Loretta Fernandes-Heaslip outlined the group’s ongoing efforts, to identify critical social issues, address gaps in programming, and strengthen communication among agencies s

By Patricia Dawson There will be a Cottage Country Spring Craft Show on Sunday, April 12th, at the Lindsay Exhibition, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring numerous vendors. Vendors will offer homemade goods, crafts, tasty treats, custom jewelry, woodcrafts, and other items. This event will be held at the Commonwell building at the Lindsey Fairgrounds and will feature unique, locally sourced items. Families can enjoy the Sunderland Maple Syrup Festival from April 11th to 12th, in

BRANDON CLARK The Standard NORTH DURHAM: On Tuesday, March 24th, the North Durham Chamber of Commerce gathered at Blackstock Recreation Complex for its Annual General Meeting, running from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sponsored by several organizations, including TD, Durham College, and Elevation Accounting. Lunch was served by Mary's Country Kitchen. Following the welcome remarks from emcee Jonathan van Bilsen and Scugog Mayor Wilma Wotten, the meeting continued with an update

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard BROCK: Expanding adult education opportunities in North Durham took centre stage, at a recent Brock council meeting, as local officials learned about a program aimed at helping residents build skills and access new career pathways. During the Monday, March 23rd meeting, council received a presentation, from, Learning Network of Durham Region representative, Jennine Agnew-Kata on the Ontario Get SET (Skills,

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard BROCK: A smooth leadership transition appears to be underway in Brock Township, with veteran municipal leader Fernando Lamanna set to take on the role of Acting Chief Administrative Officer and Clerk. Mr. Lamanna will step into the position, effective Saturday, April 11st, following the departure of outgoing CAO Michelle Willson. With more than two decades of municipal experience, Mr. Lamanna is expected to

Don Gordon , SLMF Public Relations NORTH DURHAM : The 66th edition of the Sunderland Lions Music Festival gets underway on April 8th and 9th at S.A. Cawker Public School in Port Perry, featuring elementary and secondary school bands, followed by piano, vocal and instrumental classes on April 14th through April 23rd at the Sunderland Town Hall auditorium. The festival has been presented annually by the Sunderland Lions Club since 1958, with a three-year hiatus from 2020 to 202

By Patricia Dawson A Passion Play at St. Edward the Confessor Parish on April 3rd, at 7 p.m., at 75 Churchill Avenue, Uxbridge. The parish and community are blessed to once again present the Passion Play, a prayerful and moving retelling of our Lord's suffering, death, and love. At last year's debut, this year's production has grown even more, with many dedicated volunteers working to bring this retelling to life. We warmly invite our parish and community to come experience i

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard BROCK: After two years at the helm of the Township of Brock’s administration, Chief Administrative Officer, Michelle Willson has announced she will be stepping down from her role, effective April 10th, as she prepares to pursue a new opportunity outside the area. The Township of Brock is preparing for a leadership transition, following the announcement Michelle Willson will be stepping down from her role. Ms.

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard BROCK: Regional priorities, ranging from housing and transit to economic development and public safety, were outlined during a recent update, delivered to Brock Township. At council’s meeting, on Monday, March 9th, Regional Chair John Henry presented Brock councillors with the annual Regional Municipality of Durham update, offering a broad overview of major initiatives and the region’s long-term vision. Mr.