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Scugog invites families to celebrate Family Day with games, illusions and photos
DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard SCUGOG: On a chilly February morning, the halls of the Scugog Community Recreation Centre will soon be filled with laughter, bright colours, and the excited chatter of children because Family Day Fun is back. Scheduled for Monday, February 16th, the event promises a full day of free activities, where families can craft, play, skate, and make memories together. From crafts and games, to inflatables, balloon m
darryl knight
5 hours ago2 min read


The House of the Rising Sun
by Jonathan van Bilsen I never planned to spend a night in jail, but then again, few seventeen-year-olds do. Most people never see the inside of a cell, unless it is on television, and that is probably a good thing. It is certainly not the Marriott. Still, I can honestly say, I have done time in ‘the Big House’. It all started with a heartbreak. My first, in fact. She was the prettiest girl in my class, and for two glorious weeks, I thought we were destined for greatness. The

Jonathan van Bilsen
Nov 14, 20252 min read


Kawartha Lakes calls on community to share photos for new heritage displays
DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard KAWARTHA LAKES: Local history lovers and longtime residents have a new way to help celebrate the spirit of Kawartha Lakes, by sharing their own photographs which tell the story of life across the municipality. Two new photo displays are being prepared for City Hall, and organizers are asking community members, local museums, archives, and heritage groups to help bring the area’s history to life. The exhibits
darryl knight
Oct 30, 20252 min read


Your photo could be the cover of Scugog’s 2026 nature calendar
DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard SCUGOG: The Scugog Environmental & Climate Change Advisory Committee (SECCAC) is encouraging residents to grab their cameras and celebrate the natural beauty of their surroundings, through the second annual Scugog Nature Photo Contest. Open to residents of all ages and skill levels, the contest highlights the plants, animals, and scenic landscapes which make Scugog such a remarkable place to call home. Twelve
darryl knight
Oct 16, 20251 min read


It is Called Forbidden for a Reason
by Jonathan van Bilsen The very first time I went to Beijing was in the late eighties. The tallest building was no more than three stories high, and individuals were not allowed to own cars. It was a city of unadvertised adventure, and I fell right into the middle of it. It was my last day in the capital city, en route to Singapore. I had contacted the airport to confirm my flight, only to be told it was overbooked and I would not be able to leave on schedule. I have never be

Jonathan van Bilsen
Oct 16, 20254 min read


Gallery: 2025 Bobcaygeon Fair
The 171st Bobcaygeon Fall Fair was well attended due to a combination of great weather and great events throughout the weekend of...
Colleen Green
Oct 2, 20251 min read


27th Annual Port Perry Antique & Nostalgia Show returns October 18 & 19
Jesse Gillis, Lake Scugog Historical Society SCUGOG: Scugog Recreational Community Centre will once again transform into a treasure...

The Standard
Oct 2, 20252 min read


‘Quietly Incredible’ tagline aims to showcase Kawartha Lakes’ charm
DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard KAWARTHA LAKES: A family paddling along the Trent-Severn Waterway, a...
darryl knight
Sep 25, 20252 min read


Talking about silent films in Uxbridge
UXBRIDGE: How silent were silent films? The silents of the roaring twenties may not have had speech, but they had sound. And that sound...

The Standard
Sep 25, 20251 min read


Dave Ellis brings Kawartha Lakes wildlife to Scugog
NORTH DURHAM: Dave Ellis will showcase the wildlife of Kawartha Lakes, through his photography, at the September meeting of North Durham...

The Standard
Sep 11, 20251 min read


A Hummer, a Hill, and Twenty Bears
by Jonathan van Bilsen I had only been to Whistler once before, many years earlier, so when my friend Jim suggested we head into the...

Jonathan van Bilsen
Aug 21, 20252 min read


The Artist Within - What is the definition of success?
by Lauren Walker I wrote an article for the “Art, Artists, Artwork” website, called “The Right Art-itude” for success. I cover all the...

Lauren Walker
Jul 30, 20252 min read


Gallery: 2025 UxPort Tennis Tournament
The Port Perry Tennis Club hosted the 2025 Uxport interclub tournament Saturday 12 July 2025 between the Port Perry Tennis Club and the...

The Standard
Jul 25, 20251 min read


Pick a Direction
By Jonathan van Bilsen One thing travel has taught me over the years, is that mishaps are often the highlights. I have seen wonders, met...

Jonathan van Bilsen
Jul 17, 20252 min read


Security Cameras Approved for Cannington Library and Animal Shelter
DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard CANNINGTON: Brock Township Council has given the green light to...
darryl knight
May 21, 20252 min read


Photo Gallery: Celebrating VE Day in Scugog
SCUGOG: Victory in Europe (VE) Day, remains a defining moment in history. Celebrated on May 8th, 1945, it signifies the unconditional...

The Standard
May 16, 20251 min read


Lost in the Valley of the Kings
by Jonathan van Bilsen Thank you all for taking the time to read the first instalment of my new column, ‘Not Part of the Plan’ . Over...

Jonathan van Bilsen
May 16, 20252 min read


Not Part Of The Plan
by Jonathan van Bilsen I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who reached out to say they missed my "You’ve Got to be...

Jonathan van Bilsen
May 9, 20251 min read


Ants: from Central America to Ontario
JAY THIBERT, NDN NORTH DURHAM: North Durham Nature (NDN) is hosting Rob Willson at their Tuesday, May 27th, starting at 7 p.m. Mr....

The Standard
May 1, 20251 min read


A new youth social skills program is happening with BBBS of North Durham
DOUGLAS ELLIS Executive Assistant Office of Todd McCarthy, MPP for Durham NORTH DURHAM: The Hon. Todd McCarthy, MPP for Durham, met with...

The Standard
Apr 16, 20252 min read
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