DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard NORTH DURHAM/KAWARTHA LAKES: A handful of young hockey players, from North Durham and Kawartha Lakes, took a major step toward their junior hockey dreams, over the weekend, as the Ontario Hockey League held its 2026 Priority Selection, in Kingston. While no local players were selected, during Friday night's opening round, several area standouts heard their names called, throughout rounds two through 15. This highlighted the strength of local hockey

by Pat Asling We are finally getting the rain we needed! How quickly things change, and we are either complaining about too much of a good thing or wishing for more. I understand, though. The town of Uxbridge is not too happy because they got a downpour on Saturday, and I assume more today, possibly washing out many of the planned activities of the Springtime Music Festival! One which couldn’t be washed out was the performance by Robin Ottolini at Second Wedge, at least I ass

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard A season filled with success, growth and memorable moments was celebrated recently, as the Uxbridge Bruins gathered for their annual awards banquet at the Uxbridge Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. The evening provided an opportunity to recognize individual achievements, while also marking the end of an era, for several key members of the organization. Among those saying goodbye was Bruins president, Jay Simmonds, who announced he is stepping awa

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard NORTH DURHAM: Treasure hunters and bargain seekers will once again have an opportunity to explore neighbourhoods across Durham Region when Curbside Giveaway Day returns on Saturday, June 13. The popular event, running from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., encourages residents to place unwanted items that are still in good condition at the curb, clearly marked “Free,” allowing others to take them home and give them a second life. Organized in partnership with Durha

by Jay Thibert NDN Africa is famous for its large mammals, and many tourists go there to get a firsthand view of some of their spectacular beasts. However, there are many other amazing animals to be seen there, in particular a great diversity of birds. James and Lynda Kamstra took just such a trip through the Serengeti Plains and some of the great national parks of Kenya and Tanzania. The wildlife was awesome with the Great migration of many thousands of zebras and wildebeest

By Pat Asling Firstly, I want to send out a big “Thank You” to all those who remembered me in the almost two months I have been on the sick list. I received many telephone calls and emails, as well as gifts of food, flowers, and other special gifts. All were much appreciated! Thanks to Adele Boy for driving me to many medical appointments. Also to Deborah Clements and to my son Ivan, who took time off work to take me to appointments at Newmarket Hospital. Also to Jenny, who a

By Patricia Dawson In honour of International Trails Day, the Township of Uxbridge and local Trail partners are hosting a free community celebration of a world-class Trail Network and great things happening, showing guided walks, exhibits, and local experts for a day of nature learning and community. The event features live entertainment, games, and activities for kids. At this event, you can join guided hikes, learn essential Trail safety tips, pick up trail maps, meet group

by Pat Asling "June is busting out all over!" and isn't it wonderful after what May had to offer! To start with, there is a full blue moon, a rare one which will not be seen for several years again. I was awake one night earlier in the week, and the brilliance was blinding, and it wasn't even full at that point. Of course, it has been quite windy, with the result that many of our blossoms have blown away, such as the apple and cherry, but still a richness of multicolour lilac

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard UXBRIDGE: A new chapter is underway for one of Canada’s most respected stock car racing organizations, as, former NASCAR Canada Series champion, Jason Hathaway and Jamie Hakonson-Hathaway officially take ownership of Team 3 Red/EHR. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the team, founded in 2001, by longtime NASCAR Canada Series supporter, Ed Hakonson, who passed away just over a year ago. The new ownership group said, it is committed t

by Pat Asling Here we are at the end of a dreary month. Wasn’t there an old song that says, “What is so gay as a day in May?” Or similar? Well, we had that one day, and only about one day. Blink, and you missed it. Sadly, the heat of that day signalled to my evening grosbeaks that it was time to head north and off they went. Birder extraordinaire, Geoff Carpentier, had the same experience. There are still plenty of birds, but I miss those big bold ones. Goldfinches are thick

By Patricia Dawson Come out to the Beaverton Curling Club pig roast and silent auction: May 30th, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 164 Main Street. Everyone is welcome to join the Beaverton Club for a pig roast buffet meal and silent auction held on the rink floor of the Curling Club. Tickets are $30 a person. Cocktails are at 5 p.m., dinner is at 6 p.m., and an auction will follow. Paint your pet and paint events, May 30th, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Elgin Park, Main Street, in Uxbri

KAWARTHA LAKES/NORTH DURHAM: Communities across Canada came together on Wednesday, May 6th, as McDonald's Canada celebrated its 32nd annual McHappy Day, raising funds to support families with sick and injured children through Ronald McDonald House Charities. Throughout the day, a portion of proceeds from every food and beverage purchase at participating McDonald’s locations was donated to Ronald McDonald House helping children and families in need. Customers could support the