News & Updates

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

Follow the updates from Connectoshawa.ca

Follow the updates from Connectoshawa.ca

  • Oshawa welcomes new Fire Chief

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    The City of Oshawa and Oshawa Fire Services are pleased to announce the hiring of Shane Caskanette as the City’s new Fire Chief.

    “The City welcomes Shane to Oshawa Fire Services,” said Ron Diskey, Commissioner of Community Services. “Fire Chief Caskanette brings over 25 years of fire service experience and has a wealth of knowledge in the areas of fire suppression, training and resource management.”

    Mr. Caskanette began his career as a firefighter for the City of Woodstock and was promoted through the ranks and held the positions of Company Officer/Acting Lieutenant, Captain Fire Training Division and Deputy Fire Chief. More recently, Mr. Caskanette was the Deputy Fire Chief for the Town of Richmond Hill.

    “On behalf of Council I would like to welcome our new Fire Chief, Shane Caskanette to Oshawa," said Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Community Services Committee. “I'm sure our City will benefit greatly from the training and experience Chief Caskanette brings to this very important leadership position within our Fire Services.”

    Fire Chief Caskanette will oversee all aspects of Fire Services and takes over from retired Fire Chief Steve Meringer.

    Mr. Caskanette is a Master’s of Labour Relations and Employment Law (L.L.M.) Candidate at Osgoode Hall Law School. Additionally, he holds a Certificate in Labour Law from Osgoode Hall Law School, Master’s Certificate in Municipal Leadership from the Schulich Executive Education Centre at York University, Diploma in Public Administration from University of Western Ontario, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Safety Studies/Public Safety Administration from the Justice Institute of British Columbia.

    For information about Oshawa Fire Services, visit www.oshawa.ca/fire.


  • Oshawa Environmental Advisory Committee Memories of Trees contest winners announced

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    The Oshawa Environmental Advisory Committee (O.E.A.C.) is excited to announce that Maria Steventon, Linda Bazowsky, Pauline Hutchinson and Laurie Ball are the winners of the Memories of Trees contest. Each of the award recipients will be presented with a certificate and have a tree planted in their honour at the O.E.A.C. annual tree dedication event on September 24, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. at Cordova Park (811 Glen St.) in support of National Tree Day.

    Earlier this summer, the O.E.A.C. invited residents aged 55 plus to share a memory of a special tree or trees that have impacted their life. Participants were encouraged to express their story creatively through a variety of mediums including prose or poetry, photos, videos, painting or sculptures.

    The winning creative submissions included:

    • a quilt entitled “Tato’s Cherry Trees” created by Maria Steventon in commemoration of her father’s cherry trees that he planted on their front yard in Oshawa in the 1950’s;
    • a photo essay called “A Walk Among the Trees” by Linda Bazowsky featuring a collection of photos taken of the beautiful trees at the Oshawa lakefront, year round;
    • a painting of a tree that was in her backyard as a child that was submitted by Pauline Hutchinson; and
    • a short story entitled “My Tree” written by Laurie Ball that is a reminiscence of a teenager’s refuge in an accessible tree which eases the decisions and dilemmas of growing up.

    In addition to the winners, another eight entries received honourable mentions. The O.E.A.C. would like to thank everyone who participated in this opportunity.

    “What a great collection of unique artistic talents to highlight the importance and impact that trees can have,” said Councillor McQuaid-England, O.E.A.C. Council Representative. “Trees provide a legacy of memories and the tree planting in the winners honour will have lasting impression for people to enjoy for years to come.”

    The O.E.A.C. thanks Veridian Connections which ‎has sponsored the tree contest.

    The O.E.A.C. is an advisory committee of Council that assists, advises and educates City Council, staff and the community on issues related to the environment. For more information, visit www.oshawa.ca/environmentor call 905-436-3311 ext. 2407.

    For updates on the City of Oshawa, visit www.oshawa.ca or follow “OshawaCity” on: Twitter and Facebook.

  • Oshawa Animal Services Adoption Challenge a success

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    Last month, Oshawa Animal Services called on the community to assist them in finding new, loving homes for long-term feline tenants, and the community did not disappoint! As a result of the challenge, 48 cats found new fur-ever homes during the Challenge and were adopted from Oshawa Animal Services, or one of our new partners: Petsmart (Whitby North) and PetValu (three locations: Oshawa at Harmony Road North, Whitby at Kendalwood Park Plaza and Courtice on King Street East).

    “As expected Oshawa residents met the challenge and 65 animals now have new homes, but we still have more looking for families”, said Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Community Services Committee. “If you’re looking for a pet Oshawa Animal Services is a great place to start”.

    While the Challenge may be over, stray animals found in Oshawa are still looking for their second chance. By adopting instead of shopping, new pet owners:

    · Know what you are getting: the Oshawa Animal Services staff will be able to tell you about your potential pet’s personality, likes and dislikes.

    · Get a great bargain: the adoption fee at Oshawa Animal Services includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, flea treatment, deworming, microchipping and rabies shot. Even with all of that, the fee is much less than what you would pay at a breeder!

    In addition to seeing 48 cats find new homes, 10 dogs and 7 small animals (six bunnies and one guinea pig) were adopted during the month of August. While the Challenge was a huge success, Oshawa Animal Services still has many cats, dogs and small animals (e.g. bunnies and guinea pigs) available for adoption. Eligible animals can always be found on the Oshawa Animal Services Pet Adoption webpage (www.oshawa.ca/petadoption) and City of Oshawa social media accounts.

    For updates on the City of Oshawa, visit www.oshawa.ca or follow “OshawaCity” on Twitter and Facebookand “CityofOshawa” on Instagram.


  • You’re Invited: Explore local cultural and heritage sites during Doors Open Oshawa

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    On Saturday, October 1, the 13th annual Doors Open Oshawa event will offer free access to architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant sites across the city.

    The doors of 19 local heritage and cultural sites will swing open for a peek inside Oshawa’s history and culture. The sites are open free of charge between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (unless otherwise noted). ­­

    History buffs, culture fans and curious residents will have free access to some sites that are not often open for public tours or visits, including museums, churches and several buildings with heritage designation.

    Three new sites have been added that distinctly complement this year’s theme of “Medical Science and Innovation”:

    1. the Pine Ridge Model Train Club, established in 1969, incorporates many aspects of cultural significance in miniature, specifically rail transportation and logistics;

    2. Lakeridge Health Oshawa LHEARN Centre is an ideal fit for this year’s theme and will highlight the training provided to the next generation of health care providers through tours and hands on simulations; and,

    3. a new walking tour focusing on how technological innovation influenced when and how people historically interacted with nature, the environment and science. Tours depart from the Alexandra Park sign every 30 minutes beginning at 10:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

    Back by popular demand is a tour of Camp X, the former top-secret WWII spy training school, with renowned author Lynn Philip Hodgson, as well as an open house at the Oshawa Executive Airport and Ontario Regiment Museum; the Regiment is celebrating its 150th year of service to the community in 2016.

    “If you're interested in learning more about your city, then I suggest you join us for Doors Open Oshawa”, said Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Community Services Committee. “I know some of the information you'll receive will truly amaze you”.

    Doors Open is an annual province-wide celebration that offers residents and visitors a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy sometimes hidden and always interesting places and spaces in participating Ontario communities. Those visiting sites are encouraged to share photo and video with the City by tweeting @OshawaCulture and using the hashtag #DoorsOpenOsh, as well as upload their photos on www.oshawa.ca/doorsopen between Saturday, October 1 and Saturday, October 15.

    Doors Open Oshawa 2016 is organized by the City of Oshawa and Heritage Oshawa, and with the support of community volunteers and partners and the Ontario Heritage Trust. ­

    For more information on Doors Open Oshawa:

    · Website: www.oshawa.ca/doorsopen

    · Follow: #DoorsOpenOsh on Twitter

    · Call: Service Oshawa at 905-436-3311

    For updates on the City of Oshawa, visit www.oshawa.ca or follow “OshawaCity” on: Twitter and Facebook.


  • Local Government Week celebration kicks off with Mayor for a Day contest

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    The City of Oshawa is proud to once again participate in Local Government Week, celebrated province-wide the week of October 16-22.

    Local Government Week provides residents with an open invitation to get to know their local government and the role it plays in defining not only the programs, services and physical make-up of the City, but also the character, culture and environment that makes Oshawa so unique.

    “Local Government Week provides the community with an excellent opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the City of Oshawa”, said Councillor Amy McQuaid-England, Chair of the Corporate Services Committee. “I look forward to reading about staff profiled this year and encourage all residents to read about the men and women who keep our city running”.

    As in previous years, our celebration will start early with the kick-off for the Mayor for a Day contest, as well as staff profiles online.

    Available for Oshawa students in grades 5, 6, and 7, the annual Mayor for a Day contest asks interested students to write a letter explaining why they would like to be mayor for the day, and what their vision for the future of Oshawa is. Submissions are due by midnight, Friday, October 7, 2015.

    The winner will be notified via their school official on Tuesday, October 11, and will enjoy many exciting privileges, including having the Mayor attend their school, a private tour of City Hall, lunch with the Mayor at their favourite Oshawa restaurant, and more!

    Beginning Monday, September 19, a different City of Oshawa staff member will be profiled on the City’s social media accounts and website each week. Supporting our community on a daily basis, these public servants are committed to the highest degrees of integrity, good governance, and service. These profiles will highlight a few of the diverse careers that play an integral role in the City’s infrastructure, and provide the community with a behind the scenes look at a day in the life of four public servants.

    New to this year’s celebration, a video developed by the City will further explain the differences between the roles and responsibilities of the three levels of government, and the two-tier municipal system.

    Residents young and old are invited to engage and ask questions about how local government affects their life. They can do so on www.connectoshawa.ca/LGW, or contact Service Oshawa directly at service@oshawa.ca or 905-436-3311.

    To learn more about Local Government Week and Mayor for a Day contest, please visit: www.oshawa.ca/LGW.

  • Music to your ears

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    As part of Oshawa’s vibrant arts and culture scene, Culture Night in Oshawa delivered art, music, drama, dance, literary and more to Oshawa’s downtown core this summer. The Thursday evening festivities paired two events together: Culture Squared (Culture2) and Concerts in the Park.

    The Concerts in the Park series returned in 2016 to bring a fantastic lineup of talented local artists that performed at the Memorial Park Bandshell (John and Centre Streets) every Thursday from 7:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. The concerts were free and highlighted all genres of music including, rock, jazz, opera and country.

    Looking to build on this year’s success, the City of Oshawa is asking for community feedback on the events. A six question survey is available online and in-person at Service Oshawa, located in City Hall at 50 Centre St. S.

    “I hate to say it, but summer is nearly over and we hope some had time to attend our Concerts in the Park”, said Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Community Services Committee. “In order to ensure we have great concerts next year I encourage people to take part in our survey – thank you”.

    Feedback received from the survey will be used to develop plans for Concerts in the Park 2017. The survey will be available until Friday, October 7, 2016.

  • Welcome back students: Safety and be a good neighbour reminders

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    September marks the beginning of a new school year, and back to school means more children and pedestrians walking and biking in school areas, as well as the return of post-secondary students.

  • Oshawa Animal Services Adoption Challenge

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    Oshawa Animal Services Adoption Challenge

    Oshawa Animal Services is calling on the community to assist them in finding new, loving homes for its long-term feline tenants. The Adoption Challenge offers preferred pricing for mature cats who have been calling the shelter home since before June 22, 2016.

    Supporters of the “Adopt Don’t Shop” movement, Oshawa Animal Services offers animal care services for stray animals. Perks of adopting a companion animal from the shelter versus purchasing from a breeder include:

    • Knowing what you are getting: the Oshawa Animal Services staff will be able to tell you about your potential pet’s personality, likes and dislikes.
    • You will get a great bargain: the adoption fee at Oshawa Animal Services includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, flea treatment, deworming, microchipping and rabies shot. Even with all of that, the fee is much less than what you would pay at a breeder, even more so at the Adoption Challenge Preferred Pricing rate!
    • You will give an animal a second chance: Oshawa Animal Services always has healthy, sweet and smart animals waiting to go home with you.

    “Up for a Challenge? Then why not drop by Animal Services and say “Hello Kitty” to some of the cats we have ready for adoption,” said Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Community Services Committee. “After your visit you may have a new friend to take home to join your family.”

    Some of the eligible cats will be profiled on the Oshawa Animal Services Pet Adoption webpage and City of Oshawa social media accounts. Stay tuned to see photos, read animal profiles and learn about community adoptions!

  • Final two Oshawa 88 Keys pianos unveiled at South Oshawa and Northview Community Centres

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    The final two highly anticipated Oshawa 88 Keys pianos were unveiled at South Oshawa Community Centre and Northview Community Centre this week. The upright pianos were transformed by the Urban Arts for Social Change (U.A.S.C.) Graffiti School and local artist Marnie Packman, respectively.

    Transformed by students of the visual arts program at R.S. McLaughlin C.V.I. and mentors from The LivingRoom Community Art Studio, the U.A.S.C. Graffiti School piano, to be located in the Youth Room at South Oshawa Community Centre, hopes to spark an ‘Ode to Joy’ in Oshawa. Colourful and covered in creative graffiti and doodles, the piano looks visually stunning from a distance and is awe-invoking up close with its elaborate designs. Dubbed an ‘Instrument of Change’, the piano’s additional interactive elements on its top and sides allow more than one user at a time, encouraging collaboration and creativity.

    Marnie Packman’s piano, now located at Northview Community Centre, has been covered in old computer keyboard keys, specifically the letters C, D, E, F, G, A and B to mimic musical scales. Marnie hopes that the nostalgia of the of computer keys, and the mixed mediums and texture paired with the piano will inspire generations young and old to spend time together, whether they be long-time friends or mere acquaintances.

    “We have just unveiled the pianos at the South Oshawa and Northview Community Centres, and they look great”, said Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Community Services Committee. “This completes the City’s part in the 88 Keys project, and it is now up to the residents to use them and make beautiful music for all to enjoy”.

    The unveiling of the South Oshawa Community Centre and Northview Community Centre pianos follows the reveal of the Civic Square piano. Together, the three pianos will bring as much enjoyment to the eyes as to the ears in their new homes.

    Originally conceived as part of the Civic Square revitalization project, the 88 Keys Project follows the City’s Public Art Policy and connects to the Culture Counts: Oshawa’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Plan key strategy of “creating vibrant places and spaces.”

    Recent accomplishments of the Civic Square revitalization project include the addition of new tables, chairs and umbrellas, increased electrical components, the installation of the Culture Counts pinwheel logo and soon, the public art mural designed by Durham College artist Allanah Larsen.

  • Oshawa 88 Keys Civic Square piano unveiled

    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Email this link

    The first of the highly anticipated Oshawa 88 Keys pianos was unveiled in City Hall’s Civic Square yesterday at Culture Squared. The upright piano, transformed by local artist Monique Ra Brent, is an abstract piece inspired by local musicians and symbolism.

    A seasoned live performance painter, Ra Brent is most inspired when surrounded by people and music. Her piano transformation was not a solo project; she invited local musicians to play the piano and in the moment, she translated their music into the artwork now captured on the instrument.

    “The piano in Civic Square looks and sounds great, and I’m sure it will add to the cultural activities at City Hall”, said Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Community Services Committee.

    Ra Brent is an artist, teacher and mother from Durham Region. Born in California and raised in Toronto, Monique has been painting, drawing and teaching since childhood. Her piano is the first of three Oshawa 88 Keys upright pianos to be unveiled. The other two pianos, to be located at South Oshawa Community Centre and Northview Community Centre, will be unveiled on Wednesday, August 3 and Thursday, August 4 respectively.

    The 88 Keys Project follows the City’s Public Art Policy and connects to the Culture Counts: Oshawa’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Plan key strategy of “creating vibrant places and spaces.” Originally conceived as part of the Civic Square revitalization project, the pianos will bring as much enjoyment to the eyes as to the ears in their new homes.

    Recent accomplishments of the Civic Square revitalization project include the addition of new tables, chairs and umbrellas, increased electrical components, the installation of the Culture Counts pinwheel logo and soon, the public art mural designed by Durham College artist Allanah Larsen.

Page last updated: 31 Oct 2023, 08:44 AM