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Whether you are a fiction or non-fiction writer, poet, playwright, screenwriter, songwriter, editor or someone who loves the way words connect – make yourself at home on our website. Check out our Member Web Pages and Paeans pages to find out more about our active members. Sign up for WCDR-sponsored Workshops and events, preview upcoming guest speakers at our Breakfast Meetings, or read past issues of our newsletter, “Word Weaver.” Enter a WCDR sponsored contest or follow our links to the plethora of contest opportunities that are out there for poets, novelists, short story writers, memoirists, creative non-fiction writers and others.

We have also put together Links pages to other writing organizations and associations, as well as publications and miscellaneous resources. We offer help for writers on our Grammar Puss, Ask a Writer and Recommended Book List pages. Find out how to join WCDR and/or one of the local writing circles in and around Durham Region.

Based in Oshawa Ontario , The Durham Dragons Track & Field club serves runners of all ages ( MTA OTFA ) from the Durham Region. Athletes from Pickering , Ajax , Whitby , Oshawa , Courtice and surrounding areas are welcome to join along with all high school athletes. The Durham Dragons Athletic Track & Running Club has a goal to promote wellness amongst youth by providing and encouraging quality running activities and events, both recreational and competitive for the beginner and elite athletes. You can join the club at anytime and begin a program designed to meet your goals. The Dragons are the club most recommended by high schools for providing over and above basic training to their athletes.

Founded in 2001 as an offshoot of an older, more established club, and now with over 200 members . The Durham Dragons Athletics Club is the fastest growing, in both size and success, running clubs in Durham , Ontario . DDAC members from all across the region Scarborough , UxBridge, Pickering , Ajax , Brooklin, Whitby , Oshawa , Bowmanville, Courtice, Port Perry, and Cobourg are track athletes, and runners of all ages and levels from beginners to very competitive

For more information visit the Durham Dragons Web Site.

Begun in July of 2006 by a single mom who just wanted to make a difference in the community, Durham Women for Friendship has grown to whopping 219 members and has hosted over 220 events, ranging from potluck get-togethers, women nights out, going to the movies, bookclubs, home parties, walks, mommy playgroups, games of golf, skating, dance classes, and more. The women have gone to concerts together, held scrapbooking sessions, hold business meetings, and regularly play volleyball. There are several events held weekly, and this is growing.

“It’s all thanks to the members, and particularly our head assistant organizer – Marcia – that DWFF has grown to become so successful”, says founder Karri Hull. “I started the group at a point in my life when I couldn’t really put a lot of time into it, but knew that it was really needed in our community. I was looking for someone who would really take off with it, organize events, and manage stuff. Marcia stepped forward to accept the challenge and we’ve never looked back. There are 3-5 new members joining weekly now and the variety of events that are held are spectacular!”

“Durham Women For Friendship” (known by members as DWFF) is FREE to join, and members simply login to the website to see what’s going on. Once logged in you can email and chat with the other members, post and reply to messages on the message boards, and check out what events are coming up. If you want to attend an event you simply go to the calendar and rsvp that you will be there. You can see who else is going and get all the details.

More assistant organizers/hostesses/volunteers/are always welcome, so it is up to the individual how involved she wishes to become.  It very well organized group and an excellent way to meet people.

Visit www.durham-women-for-friendship.com to sign up or to get more information.

Reason 1:  There are lots of friendly vendors waiting to give you a great deal on just about anything you need

Reason 2:  You can pick up a leather jacket, wallet, purse, belt or just about anything else you need leatherwise at an unbelievable price from one of the friendliest vendors you’ll ever meet.  Neal is located in the main (front) building right at the front on the left side.

Reason 3: It’s fun to search for a deal and laugh at some of the stuff people are trying to sell from 1972. Remember one person’s junk is anothers treasure….maybe

The market is located just west of Courtice Road on Bloor Street in Courtice.

The Scugog Shores Museum is located on Scugog Island, overlooking the town of Port Perry.  The mission of the museum is to preserve, research, interpret and exhibit artefacts that illustrate the cultural and natural history of the area.

The historic village of the Museum features eleven restored buildings including a school, church, blacksmith, print shop, woodwright and harness shop.  Each building has been restored to its 19th century appearance.  Thousands of original arifacts are on display.

The Ojibway Heritage Interpretive Lands exhibit resulted from a partnership with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nations.  A traditionally constructed wigwam, birch bark canoe and other First Nations artefacts are on display. Our collection of indigenous trees and plants forms a representative slice of the species that flourished throughout the area prior to European settlement.

The Museum Village and Ojibway Lands are open for guided tours, 10 am – 4 pm daily throughout June, July and August.  Admission to both is by donation.  The Museum also presents a variety of interesting exhibits and exciting events throughout the season.

June 1 – 30 – Oshawa Camera Club Photography Exhibit
The Oshawa Camera Club is now in its 71st year of continuous operation. It serves the photographic community of Durham Region and the surrounding area.

Tuesday, June 23, 1:00 pm – Greenbank: The Heart of Reach Township, Exhibit Opening
The official opening of the new exhibit in the Hamlet History Room of the Lee House.

Friday, June 5 and Saturday, June 6 – 41st Annual Canoe the Nonquon
Enter Canoe the Nonquon, the longest running canoe race in Ontario.  Canoeists and kayakers may enter recreational or competitive classes.  Registration takes place at the Latcham Centre (Port Perry waterfront) on Friday, June 5th from 6:00 – 9:00 pm and Saturday, June 6th from 7:00 – 9:00 am.  First boats enter the water at 7:00 am on Saturday.

Saturday, June 27 – 8:00 am – 4:00 pm – “Chrome by the Lake”, the annual Scugog Shores Classic Car Show & Shine sponsored by the Scugog Standard
The familiar sights and sounds of an annual summer tradition in Scugog will have a new home this year.  The Scugog Standard presents “Chrome by the Lake” – the annual Scugog Shores Classic Car Show and Shine, at its new location on Water St. in Port Perry.

Saturday and Sunday, July 18 – 19, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm  – Dog Days of Scugog
All dogs and their owners will not want to miss the 7th annual Dog Days of Scugog.  Sponsored by the Port Perry Star, Dog Days celebrates the unique bond that exists between dogs and their people.  It has grown to be the largest dog day in Durham Region.  Featuring Ontario Dock Dogs, Skyhoundz Disc Dog, Daytripper Agility, Canadian Association of Rally Obedience, Canine Good Neighbour Test, Jack Russell racing, contests, fashion shows and more.

Thursday, August 20, 7:00 pm – Historic Walking Tour of Greenbank
Led by Paul Arculus, President of the Lake Scugog Historical Society, guests will explore the colourful history of the village that used to be known as Smiths Corners and Gimlet Town.

Friday, Sept. 11, 7:00 – 10:00 pm – Murder Mystery Evening
Explore the Museum village and help the detectives solve a mysterious murder.  All assistant detectives will have the opportunity to interview the villagers and search for clues, in order to solve the mystery.

Sunday, Sept. 20, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm – Pioneer Fall Fair
The museum village will be bustling with activity all day long.  Craftspeople will be demonstrating everything from woodworking to rug hooking.  Check out the power of the old-fashioned steam engines, taste homemade soup and observe the meticulous work of a typesetter getting his newspaper ready for print.  The Military Reenactment Society of Canada will be performing three shows.

About the Author:  Shannon Kelly is the Curator of the Scugog Shores Museum. Their website can be visited at  www.scugogshoresmuseum.com Email: skelly@scugog.ca

Its official, Canada is in the grips of a recession as is the rest of the world. While it seems like everyone is restructuring, laying off, and cutting back, you might not have to scale back the amount of times you get out on the course this year. All it takes is a little research, preparation and sometimes luck and you’ll be golfing from spring to fall without hurting your pocket book.

1. Travel Packages- If you are the type who loves to travel and love to golf then why not combine the 2 passions. There are thousands of travel packages that will get you on some great courses at very low rates. It sometimes leaves you wondering – OK, did I get a free hotel room or a free round of golf?

2. Greens Fee Coupon Book- Golf courses have been using coupons for years to entice golfers to play at their golf course instead of the golf course down the road. These tend to be 2 for 1’s, 4 for 2’s. 50% off etc. Some coupons will have restrictions to help the golf course to fill up tee times that otherwise remain un-booked. There are also many golf courses to choose from in any given area and that leads to increased competition. A plus for you. There are a few greens fee coupon books around such as the Golf and Leisure Savings Book and their costs range from $29.99 to $70. So you only need to use 1 or 2 coupons to recoup your investment and start saving big. Go online and search out which book suits you best.

3. Play off Peak Times- Here is an example of the law of supply and demand. Do you HAVE to always play early weekend mornings? Although this time is probably most convenient for you, it is most convenient for others as well. Golf courses normally charge a premium for these tee times and you will end up paying more for that convenience. Try to play more during the week. Book a morning off work and hit the links. Or book a tee time Monday to Friday after work and take advantage of reduced weekday twilight rates.

4. Balls- Everyone, including me wants to use the best ball possible. Often, this means it is brand new or hardly used and usually more expensive. Sometimes I will use an X-out ball when I am teeing off into potential trouble like a lot of water or tight unforgiving fairway. Check out used balls online or at your local golf store. Don’t forget, a “new” golf ball is only new until its first hit. Invest in a ball retriever- Many times I’ve sliced and hooked my ball into the water and often it is submerged just beyond my reach. If only I had a ball retriever I could have easily scooped mine and sometimes others. Just a quick wipe with your towel and your ready to hit it off the next tee.

5. Tournaments- look around for open tournaments to play in. Although it may seem like a lot of money up front, you really do get a lot of value for your dollar. Most tournaments will include greens fees, a power cart, welcome package, lunch and or dinner and usually you have a chance to win some valuable prizes.

6. Equipment – Golf club fitters and repair shops will re-grip your trusted clubs to give them that new feel for only a fraction of the cost of new clubs. If you do need a new set of clubs it pays, or should I say saves to look around and do some research. Think of your golf clubs as an investment into your entertainment and as always you should try to get the best for your entertainment dollar. Don’t forget to visit golf shows or clearance centres as end of line, excess inventory or liquidation buyouts allow the seller to offer deep discounts and great deals. If you don’t want to shop then try giving your clubs a good cleaning with a bucket of soapy water and a good scrub brush to get them looking new. It’s funny how a shiny clean club always seems to strike the ball a little nicer than a dirty one. Look around and see of you can trade up your old clubs or sell your old set(s) that has been gathering dust in the basement. E-Bay, Kijiji, and Craigslist are great sites to sell online or at least determine what your current clubs are worth.

7. Shoes- Are your golf shoes looking a little ruff? Restore them with a good cleaning using a scrub brush and buff them with shoe polish or spray protector. Replace your frayed laces and change your soft spikes.

8. Walk or Ride – This is a surefire way to save $15-40 when you choose to burn some calories and walk instead of renting a power cart. On very hot days or if your legs aren’t what they used to be then riding makes sense. But if you are able, choosing to walk is a definite money saver.

9. Online Deals – Before you make your tee time reservation, go online and check out the website for the course you are going to play. Many courses offer discounts and specials only online. You may have to sign up for a monthly newsletter or register with them. You can always opt out later. Look for golf courses offering printable offers and deals around your birthday, Mothers Day, Fathers Day and even long weekends.

10. Memberships and Leagues – Most golf courses offer memberships that can save you money in the long run. Although you might have little sticker shock when you pay for the membership upfront, you’ll realize the savings if you are prepared to golf regularly and at the same course for the entire season. Most golfers with a membership start very early in the spring and are usually the ones you see on the course just before the snow flies. Golf leagues are a great way to meet new people, enjoy friendly competition and provide you an incentive to keep golfing regularly throughout the season. Some leagues have sponsored prizes, gifts, discounts on pro shop accessories and even discounts on lessons. Most golf leagues operate during the week and many after 4pm when rates are already discounted

This golf season, golf courses will be looking to keep their tee off times booked as much as possible, even if this means they must offer a little more bang for the buck. So do your homework and recession proof your golf game.

Greg Ellis is Owner of Durham Golf & Promotion and the Publisher of the 2009 Golf and Leisure Savings Book which features 150 FREE ROUNDS OF GOLF, 156 coupons at 55 golf courses, plus 72 coupons for driving ranges, golf instruction, miniature golf and golf retail shops.  You can also redeem 129 additional couponsfor discounts at popular restaurants, pubs, spas ski resorts and entertainment! Greg can can be reached at info@golfandleisure.ca

The Durham Region FUN Directory is an online guide to everything fun in Durham Region. It can help you discover new and fun things to do an see all over Durham Region!  This summer, we’ll also be including great picnic spots for family and couples too.

Have a look at the Durham Fun Directory and if you know of a fun thing to do or see in Durham Region, then drop us a line and let us know so we can include it in the Directory.

www.DurhamDirectory.com

If you are an expert or enthusiast in one of the areas that we cover on the site, ie:  Community, Healthly Living, Home and Gardens or you know of a great spot to visit in Durham Region, then please let us know!

You can submit an article either personally or as a professional organization.  We will provide credit and a link to your website at the bottom of any article we publish.

Article and content ideas can be submitted to  admin@durhamcentral.com

Thanks for reading and check back soon to see all our changes!

March break

Whitby public Library – View a full calendar of events happening at the Whitby Library.

Oshawa Public Library – Here is a full list of activities for  each branch of the Oshawa Library.

Pickering Public Library – The Pickering Library sorts their upcoming events by age group.  For a list of events for school age children click here, for a list of event for preschoolers click here, for a list of events for toddlers click here and for a list of events for teenagers, click here.

We have many indoor playgrounds listed in the Durham Fun Directory, so feel free to access our list of indoor playgrounds too.

You can also access our sister site, www.searchontario.com  and find other activities outside of the Durham Region area.  This includes many of the Toronto attractions such as Allen Gardens, indoor water parks and indoor theme parks.  Remember, we also have an excellent indoor entertainment facility here in Oshawa at NEBS Funworld!  There you can bowl, ride go carts, rock climb, play arcade games for prizes, ride carnival rides, play on inflatables and have an all around great time!

Legends Centre Oshawa

The Oshawa Legends Centre is a recreational complex which is owned and operated by the City of Oshawa.  The complex features an indoor pool with water slide and a kiddie pool. The swimming department offers swimming lessons for both kids and adults.  The centre is home to 4 indoor ice rinks of which some have limited bench seating.  There is public skating available, however there is no area seating in the rinks. 

The Legends Centre is also home to a branch of the Oshawa Public Library and the Oshawa Seniors Group which offers daily programs and events of Senior Citizens.  The wellness centre that was operating at the Legends Centre has now been closed, however reflexology, reiki and Hypnosis services are available here.

The centre is also home to a medium sized gym which overlooks the swimming pool area.  The gym also has a aerobic room attached.  Of interest is the indoor walking track which loops the inside of the building overlooking the main foyer. The walking track is remenisent of those you will find on a cruise ship…too bad the view from this one isn’t of the Atlantic.

Lastly, the centre has space available for workshops and special events.  Check what’s happening by viewing the 2009 spring and summer leisure guide here (PDF reader required).  The webpage for the Legends and other Oshawa Recreations Centres and programs is located here. You can also access a map which indicates the location of City of Oshawa Recreational Facilities and parks.

Location:

Legends Recreation Centre
1661 Harmony Rd. North
Oshawa, ON
L1H7K5
Telephone: 905-436-5455  

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The Oshawa Curling Club

Whether you are an experienced curler who wants to hone your skills in our competitive league or if you are totally unfamiliar with the sport and want to learn, we have what you need. We can teach you the game, provide you with equipment from our pro shop and put you into a playing schedule to suit your needs.

Contact info:

226 Bond Street East
Oshawa, Ontario. L1G 1B5
Tel:905-728-6281  Fax:905-728-4808
Email: cheryl@oshawacurlingclub.com

Website: www.oshawacurlingclub.com

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The club caters to a wide range of age levels and experience with regularly scheduled rides on weekdays and weekends from early April to late October. There are two highlight rides during the season, the Canada Day Ride on July 1st and in August, the Scugog Circle Century Tour. The club consists of active non-riding members, low mileage riders, cross Canada cyclists, competitive runners, triathletes and mountain bikers. Our current ride schedule has been established for the new and seasoned roadie.

The directives of the club are as follows:
- to continue to promote safe and healthy cycling
- to increase public awareness of the club
- to develop new family-oriented rides and events

You can view a calendar or weekday  or  weekend rides.

Club contact info:

Email: occ@oshawacyclingclub.org
Website www.oshawacyclingclub.org

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How to get more information:

For times, prices and other information, you can View the Clarington Recreation and Leisure Guide

Location:

Clarington Community Complex
2950 Courtice Rd North
Courtice, Ontario.
2 Blocks North of Hwy#2 on Courtice Rd.

Tel: 905-404-1525

Visit the Municipality of Clarington Recreation Department Web Site.

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