City of Toronto Public Health launches flu clinics

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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News Release:  October 31, 2013

City of Toronto Public Health launches flu clinics

Free flu shots are now available at Toronto Public Health (TPH) clinics.  A total of 29 clinics will operate at nine locations across the city between October 31, 2013 and January 9, 2014. TPH will host a media launch of the flu clinics tomorrow.

"Anyone can get the flu. One of the best ways to avoid getting the flu is to get the annual vaccine from one of our clinics, your family physician or a participating pharmacy," said Dr. David McKeown, Toronto's Medical Officer of Health. "The flu shot is a safe and effective way to protect you and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to loved ones and co-workers."

The flu vaccine is free for people six months and older who live, work or attend school in Ontario. Each year in Canada, approximately 20,000 people are hospitalized and 4,000 die due to influenza and its complications. Hospitalization rates are highest for children under five years of age and adults over 65 years of age.

Symptoms include sudden onset of headache, chills, cough, fever, loss of appetite, muscle aches, fatigue, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, especially in children.

Most people will recover within a week to 10 days, but some people are at greater risk of complications, such as worsening of underlying medical conditions, pneumonia and sometimes death. More information is available at http://bit.ly/u1XRfr.

As well as getting the flu shot, TPH also recommends frequent and thorough hand washing, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve and staying at home when you are feeling ill. For the full flu vaccination clinic schedule please call 416-338-7600 or visit http://bit.ly/1huECvB.

Media Availability/Photo Opportunity
Councillor Joe Mihevc (Ward 21 St. Paul's), Chair of the Board of Health, and Dr. McKeown will be available onsite at the Atrium clinic (595 Bay St., main floor, street level, west end,) getting the flu shot and also available for media interviews on Friday, November 1 between 11:30 a.m. and noon.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact: Kris Scheuer, Toronto Public Health, 416-338-8020, kscheue@toronto.ca

Official launch of new mobile food bus

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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Media Advisory:  October 30, 2013    

Official launch of new mobile food bus

Media are invited to the unveiling of a newly retrofitted bus that will deliver fresh, affordable foods in selected neighbourhoods across Toronto. The launch of the Mobile Good Food Market will be attended by special guests, community members, agency representatives and supporters.

Date: Thursday, October 31
Time: 11 a.m. to noon
Location: Corner of Gould Street and Victoria Street, on Ryerson University campus

Speakers:
Dr. David McKeown, Toronto's Medical Officer of Health
Andy Byford, Chief Executive Officer, Toronto Transit Commission
Debra Shime, United Way's Vice President of Community Impact
Debbie Field, Executive Director of FoodShare

The Mobile Good Food Market vehicle will sell food in neighbourhoods selected for the service through consultation with communities and an analysis of gaps in access to fresh, affordable food. This bus will be the first of its kind in Toronto.

There will be photo opportunities at the event on Thursday and media will be able to interview the speakers and meet community members. Media representatives are also invited to tour inside the retrofitted bus.

More information about this initiative is available at http://foodshare.net/mobilegoodfoodmarket.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contacts:

Kris Scheuer, Toronto Public Health, 416-338-8020, 416-677-6658 (mobile), kscheue@toronto.ca

Michelle Yao, United Way Toronto, 416-777-1444 x 340, 647-607-2823 (mobile), myao@uwgt.org

Debbie Field, Executive Director, FoodShare Toronto, 416-576-7349, debbie@foodshare.net 

Toys for kids who need them most

As a support worker at Julliette’s Place Family Shelter, Simone Thomas has seen first-hand the impact toys can have on the lives of children.

“We have seen women and their children lead some very abusive and horrific lives,” she said, at the launch of the Toronto Police Service Auxiliary 19th annual Toy Drive on Oct. 26 in the 42 Division Community Room.

“Women sometimes come to the shelter with just the clothing on the backs and a toy for their child as comfort.

“When officers from 42 and other surrounding Divisions come to our shelter to distribute the toys, it means the world to these women who might not be able to afford a gift for their children at Christmas time. It means so much to the children who didn’t even know if they were going to celebrate Christmas. To see the smiles on their faces when they open up the gifts is something else. For some, it’s the first time they have ever seen Santa Claus.”

Auxiliary officer Carrie Malin started the toy drive to bring smiles to the faces of children in women’s shelters and community centres in the city’s east end. Currently, over 340 Auxiliaries volunteer approximately 70,000 hours of their time annually to assist the Service’s community mobilization initiatives, crime prevention programs, special events, parades, searches for missing persons and emergency call-outs.

“It’s amazing when you see the smiles and excitement of the children each year,” said Auxiliary Insp. Tom Manley, the toy drive committee chair.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us to serve this wonderful resource which is our youth. Over the years, we have made a positive impact in a small way and shaped our young people to be positive in things they can do as they grow up. In a small way, we are also shaping our future through this toy drive.”

Supt. Kathryn Martin, unit commander at 42 Division, praised the volunteers for their invaluable contribution to the toy drive that supports nearly 3,000 children and youth in Scarborough.

“This initiative, in my opinion, is the best outreach program we have in Scarborough,” she said.

Unwrapped toys can be dropped off at 41 Division (2222 Eglinton Ave. E.), 42 Division (242 Milner Ave.), 43 Division (4331 Lawrence Ave. E) 33 Division (50 Upjohn Rd.), TD Canada Trust (2561 Victoria Park Ave.) or at Member of Parliament Rathika Sitsabaiesan’s constituency office (8130 Sheppard Ave. E., Suite 104).

All new, unwrapped toy donations are welcome but there is always a high demand for toys for boys and girls between the ages of 10-14.

This year’s toy drive ends on December 14.

Police issue 13 Halloween trick-or-treat safety reminders

Toronto Police Service News Release

Police issue 13 Halloween trick-or-treat safety reminders

Thursday, October 31, 2013 - 5:00 AM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

Halloween is lots of fun for kids, mostly because it usually involves getting dressed up and eating candy. There's more to Halloween than trick-or-treating, and the Toronto Police Service would like to remind everyone of the need for safety this Halloween.

Some things you may not think of include costume safety, candy cautions, trick-or-treat best practices and driver safety. Below are some of the things that the Toronto Police Service would like to remind everyone about:

1) Put strips of reflective tape on the front and back of the costumes to make them more visible to drivers

2) Your child's costume shouldn't drag on the ground — it's too easy to trip over. Shoes should be well-fitting and sturdy

3) Don't allow children to carry sharp objects. Swords, knives, and any other accessories should be made of soft, flexible material

4) If your child wears a mask, make sure it fits securely and has eyeholes large enough so that he or she can see

5) Make sure that treat bags are light-colored for easy visibility. Decorate them with reflective tape (you can find it in hardware, bicycle, or sporting goods stores)

6) No child should go trick-or-treating alone. Always accompany your younger children; older children can go in groups

7) Allow children to go trick-or-treating early but avoid the evening rush hour. It's harder for motorists to see clearly during twilight than at any other time of day

8) Give children specific neighbourhood boundaries for trick-or-treating. Set a firm curfew for your children

9) Remind children to walk on sidewalks and be cautious when crossing streets

10) Tell children to only go to homes and neighbours they know and only to houses with lights on

11) Tell children to turn down all invitations to enter homes. Period.

12) Tell children to avoid even normally friendly neighbourhood dogs, who can be startled by kids they know who are dressed in unfamiliar costumes

13) Drivers: remember children may be preoccupied with the trick-or-treating and may not be paying attention to the rules of the road. Keep vehicle speeds at or below the posted limits, and scan the road for children attempting to cross streets mid-block

Help the Toronto Police Service make this Halloween a safe and happy Halloween.

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clint Stibbe, Traffic Services

Police officer gets pink MAN-i-CURE and raises in Support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Wednesday, October 30, 2013, 2 p.m., The Ten Spot Beauty Bar, 2358 Bloor Street West, Police officer gets pink MAN-i-CURE and raises in Support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Wednesday, October 30, 2013 - 6:00 AM
Human Resources Development:  416-808-7100

On Wednesday, October 30, 2013, at 2 p.m., at The Ten Spot, 2358 Bloor Street West, Staff Sergeant Chris Boddy will get a pink MAN-i-CURE to help "nail" breast cancer.

Staff Sergeant Chris Boddy has been challenged by friends and family to
raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society and paint his nails pink during the month of October to promote breast cancer awareness. He has exceeded his fundraising goal of $500 and will be getting a pink MAN-i-CURE to help nail breast cancer.

To make a donation, please click here.

For more information please contact Michael Sheiner,Canadian Cancer Society, Ontario Division at 416-323-7181 or via email at msheiner@ontario.cancer.ca or Staff Sergeant Chris Boddy, at 416-931-9653 or via email at chris.boddy@torontopolice.on.ca

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications

Students educate peers about online protection of reputation, identity and money

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Friday, November 1, 2013 at 10 a.m., West Hill Collegiate Institute - Auditorium, 350 Morningside Avenue, Students educate peers about online protection of reputation, identity and money

Tuesday, October 29, 2013 - 3:24 PM
43 Division:  416-808-4300

Every day, youth engage in online and digital activities that put their reputations, finances and identity at risk. Some of these activities have made national headlines, while others have been happening under the radar - until now.

On Friday, November 1, 2013 at 10 a.m., students at West Hill Collegiate Institute, at 350 Morningside Avenue, will be teaming up with community partners in an event called #DontBFooled, to educate their peers about protecting themselves online.

#DontBFooled will feature a series of dramatic presentations performed by West Hill Collegiate Institute students, that will be complemented by short speeches by engaging experts including:
- Tracy MacCharles, Minister of Consumer Services
- Mark Saunders, Deputy Chief, Toronto Police Service
- Sarah Rogers, Program Manager, Victim Services Toronto
- Stefanie Arcuri, Teens Ending Abusive Relationships (T.E.A.R.) Coordinator, Victim Services Toronto
- Cameron Field, Detective Sergeant, Financial Crimes Unit, Toronto Police Service
- Dave Bellamy, Superintendent and Officer in Charge, GTA Financial Crime, Royal Canadian Mounted Police
- Jennifer George, Constable, GTA Commercial Crime Section, Royal Canadian Mounted Police

In addition, Joseph Khargie, Program Director at the 4life Foundation, will serve as Master of Ceremonies.

From 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on Friday, November 1, 2013, students and members of the public will be encouraged to tweet questions and comments about online risks using the #DontBFooled hashtag on Twitter.

Members of the public can also watch the event live via Toronto Police Service's 43 Division YouTube channel. For a direct link to the livestream, follow the #DontBFooled hashtag on Twitter, starting at 10 a.m.

Following the event, select students and Toronto District School Board representatives will be available for media interviews.

Additionally, the following spokespeople and/or representatives from the following agencies will be available for media interviews:
- Randall Arsenault, Community Engagement Officer, 43 Division, Toronto Police Service
- Cameron Field, Detective Sergeant, Financial Crimes Unit, Toronto Police Service
- Perry Quinton, Vice President of Marketing, Investor Education Fund
- Representatives from the Crime Prevention Association of Toronto
- Representatives from Ontario Provincial Police

#DontBFooled is an event organized by West Hill Collegiate Institute in partnership with the 4Life Foundation and Financial Crime and Consumer Protection Public Outreach Working Group. The working group is co-chaired by the Toronto Police Service and the Financial Services Commission of Ontario and aims to enhance public outreach on financial crime, scams and consumer protection issues.

Because what youth do online can affect their future, including their finances, this event is being held in Financial Literacy Month. For more information on Financial Literacy Month in Canada, visit http://www.fcac-acfc.gc.ca/Pages/Welcome-Bienvenue.aspx and follow the #FLM2013 hashtag on Twitter.

Key Details

Date: Friday, November 1, 2013
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Auditorium, West Hill Collegiate Institute, 350 Morningside Ave., Toronto, Ontario

Media inquiries

Detective Sergeant Cameron Field
Financial Crimes Unit, Toronto Police Service
Phone: 416.808.7304
Email: Cameron.Field@torontopolice.on.ca

Constable Randall Arsenault
Community Engagement Officer
43 Division, Toronto Police Services
Phone: 416-808-4300
Email: randall.arsenault@torontopolice.on.ca

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Staff Inspector Bryce Evans, Financial Crimes Unit

Toronto Drug Squad executes six search warrants, More than 50 kilos of drugs with street value of almost $2 million seized

Toronto Police Service News Release

Toronto Drug Squad executes six search warrants, More than 50 kilos of drugs with street value of almost $2 million seized, Five men facing 59 drug-related charges

Tuesday, October 29, 2013 - 3:12 PM
Drug Squad:  416-808-6100

The Toronto Police Service would like to advise the public of several arrests in a major drug investigation.

Overnight on Monday, October 28, 2013, officers from the Toronto Drug Squad's Major Cocaine Section executed six search warrants in connection with a two-week investigation into an alleged illegal drug distribution network.

Warrants were executed at addresses in the following Toronto areas:

- Park Lawn Road and Lakeshore Boulevard West
- Bathurst Street and Lakeshore Boulevard West
- Spadina Avenue and King Street West
- River Street and Dundas Street East

Warrants were executed at addresses in the following areas in York Region:

- Warden Avenue and Steeles Avenue East
- Bayview Avenue and Weldrick Road

It is alleged that, in the course of executing the warrants, officers located and seized the following (weights are approximate):

- 2 kilos of cocaine (street value of approximately $200,000)
- 1 kilo of ketamine (street value of approximately $80,000)
- 30 kilos of marihuana (street value of approximately $580,000)
- 17.5 kilos of MDMA (street value of approximately $1,000,000)
- 300 grams of heroin (street value of approximately $60,000)
- 60 grams of Crystal Methamphetamine (street value of approximately $6,000)
- officers also located and seized approximately $90,000 cash as proceeds of crime.

Rico Batak, 25, of Toronto, has been charged with:

1. three counts of Possession for the Purpose - Marihuana
2. three counts of Possession for the Purpose - MDMA
3. two counts Possession for the Purpose - Cocaine
4. two counts Possession for the Purpose - Ketamine
5. two counts Possession for the Purpose - Heroin
6. Possession for the Purpose - Crystal Methamphetamine
7. five counts of Possession of Proceeds of Crime

Mustafa Farouk, 25, of Richmond Hill, has been charged with:

1. three counts of Possession for the Purpose - Marihuana
2. three counts of Possession for the Purpose - MDMA
3. two counts Possession for the Purpose - Cocaine
4. two counts Possession for the Purpose - Ketamine
5. two counts Possession for the Purpose - Heroin
6. Possession for the Purpose - Crystal Methamphetamine
7. five counts of Possession of Proceeds of Crime

Kyle Edwardh-Turrell, 41, of Toronto, has been charged with:

1. three counts of Possession for the Purpose - Marihuana
2. three counts of Possession for the Purpose - MDMA
3. five counts of Possession of Proceeds of Crime

Adam Wookey, 29, of Toronto, has been charged with:

1. two counts of Possession for the Purpose - Marihuana
2. two counts of Possession for the Purpose - MDMA
3. two counts of Possession of Proceeds of Crime

Gabriel Pretto-Viani, 29, of Toronto, has been charged with:

1. two counts of Possession for the Purpose - Marihuana
2. two counts of Possession for the Purpose - MDMA
3. two counts of Possession of Proceeds of Crime

All five accused were scheduled to appear in court today at Old City Hall, 10 a.m., room 103.

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Detective John Zeleny, Organized Crime Enforcement - Drug Squad

TPS recruiting event, Somali general information session/PREP session

Toronto Police Service News Release

Saturday, November 2, 2013, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Toronto Police College, 70 Birmingham Street, TPS recruiting event, Somali general information session/PREP session

Tuesday, October 29, 2013 - 2:09 PM
Employment:  416-808-8101

The Toronto Police Service Benefits and Employment Unit, Recruiting Section, will be hosting a Somali General Information/PREP Session on Saturday, November 2, 2013, at the Toronto Police College, at 70 Birmingham Street.

The information session offers potential candidates important information about becoming a constable in Toronto as well as civilian opportunities within the Toronto Police Service.

For those interested in becoming a constable in Toronto, the information session will be followed by a practice PREP session, which provides practical knowledge of the physical fitness requirements.

This information session is only open to new candidates and advanced registration is required. Please contact Constable Wayne Jackson at wayne.jackson@torontopolice.on.ca or Constable Milton Ferguson at saintpage.ferguson@torontopolice.on.ca to register.

We encourage Somali men and women, 18 and older, with an interest in a career in law enforcement in Toronto to come forward and participate in the event.

To follow us on Facebook click here.

To follow us on Twitter click here.

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Constable Wayne Jackson, Benefits and Employment Unit

City of Toronto launches campaign promoting road safety

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

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News Release:  October 29, 2013   

City of Toronto launches campaign promoting road safety

The City of Toronto is launching an education safety campaign to encourage pedestrians, drivers and cyclists to be more aware of each other, especially as we enter a season with reduced daylight hours.

The advertising campaign – displayed on the sides of TTC buses – features a painted face with the eyes focused on either a pedestrian, a cyclist or a vehicle. Highlighting the slogan "Stay Alert – Stay Safe," the campaign reminds people that it is vital to be aware of others using city roads.

"We want to focus on the safety of all road users as they travel around the City," said Councillor Denzil Minnan-Wong (Ward 34 Don Valley East), Chair of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee. "It's important that everyone who uses our roads be aware of their surroundings and puts safety first. Road safety is everyone's responsibility."

Statistics compiled by the City show that there is an increase in collisions involving pedestrians at this time of the year. So far in 2013, 30 pedestrians have been killed in collisions with vehicles – up from 18 deaths at this time last year.

"The best way to keep our streets safe is for everyone to be aware of each other at all times – and this advertising campaign reminds people to do that," noted Councillor Minnan-Wong.

More road safety tips, as well as the campaign's advertisements, are available at http://www.toronto.ca/stayalert.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact: Steve Johnston, Senior Communications Co-ordinator, Strategic Communications, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca

Public Safety Alert, Stolen Medication

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public Safety Alert, Stolen Medication

51 Division:   416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware that a quantity of medication was stolen.

On Saturday, October 26, 2013 at approximately 2 p.m., six bottles, each containing 95 milligrams of liquid methadone, were stolen from the lobby of 431 King Street East in the Parliament Street and King Street area.

Methadone could be harmful or even fatal if ingested, particularly if ingested by a child. The liquid methadone is an orange colour that is commonly mistaken for orange juice.

Anyone finding the medication is asked not to handle it, but to contact police at 416-808-5100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), or Leave A Tip on Facebook. Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Saleem Husain, 51 Division

How racism impacts health

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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Media Advisory:  October 28, 2013

How racism impacts health

The 2013 Toronto Public Health's annual Charles Hastings lecture will focus on Race and Health, a Healthy Future for All. This year the keynote speaker is Dr. David R. Williams, an internationally recognized health equity expert and Harvard University professor.

The panel discussion will include two respondents who will focus these issues into a Toronto context, Uzma Shakir, Director of Diversity and Human Rights for the City of Toronto and Naki Osutei, Director of Human Resources, Diversity and Inclusion for the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games.

Date: Tuesday, October 29
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Isabel Bader Theatre, 93 Charles St. W.

There is a growing body of international research on the health impacts of racism and the unequal distribution of the social determinants of health by race. Given Toronto's great diversity, understanding and tackling this issue will enable all residents to have the best chance for good health.

More information is available at http://2013hastingslecture-eorg.eventbrite.ca/

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact: Kris Scheuer, Toronto Public Health, 416-338-8020, 416-677-6658 (cell), kscheue@toronto.ca

Chief Blair to kick off 19th Annual Toronto Police Annual Toy Drive

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Saturday, October 26, 2013, noon, 42 Division Community room, 242 Milner Avenue. Chief Blair to kick off 19th Annual Toronto Police Annual Toy Drive

Saturday, October 26, 2013 - 5:00 AM
42 Division:  416-808-4200

On Saturday, October 26, 2013, at noon, in the community room at 42 Division, 242 Milner Avenue, at noon, Chief Blair will kick off the 19th annual Toronto Police Auxiliary Toy Drive.

This event supports approximately 3,000 children and youth in need from the Scarborough area. The Auxiliary Officers from 41, 42, 43 and 33 Divisions are seeking the charitable and generous support from the community, local businesses and students from area schools.

Your efforts and those of our Auxiliary Officers will help bring in the spirit of the season and help give a child in need a Christmas.

Media support to assist with public awareness of this worthwhile event is crucial to the success of the Toy Drive.

All toy donations are welcome but we are always desperate for toys for boys and girls ages 10-14.

Unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the following Scarborough police locations:

41 Division: 2222 Eglinton Avenue East
42 Division: 242 Milner Avenue
43 Division: 4331 Lawrence Avenue East
33 Division: 50 Upjohn Road

Also accepting unwrapped toys at the following locations:

TD Canada Trust Bank: 2561 Victoria Park Avenue

If you have further questions, please contact Constable Mark Gray at 416-808-4251 or mark.gray@torontopolice.on.ca



Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Constable Mark Gray, 42 Division

Road resurfacing work at Lower Jarvis Street

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

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News Release:  October 25, 2013

Road resurfacing work at Lower Jarvis Street 

The City of Toronto will be performing road repaving work at Lower Jarvis Street this weekend, weather permitting. Work will begin on Friday, October 25 at 9 p.m. and continue until Saturday, October 26 at 3 a.m. This work will require the following road closures in the area:

- Eastbound Jarvis Street ramp from the Gardiner Expressway to Lake Shore Boulevard

- Market Street, from The Esplanade to Wilton Street (partial closure)

- Wilton Street, from Lower Jarvis Street to Market Street (partial closure)

- Lower Jarvis Street, from Queens Quay to The Esplanade (partial closure).

In addition to these closures, eastbound traffic on Lake Shore Boulevard will be reduced to one lane at times, to allow crews perform this work.

A more complete list of events and road work is available at http://www.toronto.ca/torontostreets/. In addition, T.O. INview, a map that shows information about planned capital construction work taking place across the city, can be accessed at http://www.toronto.ca/inview

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact:  Steve Johnston, Senior Communications Co-ordinator, Strategic Communications, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca

Kids finish race with police friends, bikes

A group of girls finished a bike race with a new set of wheels, but also a connection to the officers who police their portion of the city.

A group of students from Nelson Mandela Public School were among kids from across the city who took part in the Tour de Black Creek race on Sept. 21, which gave them the opportunity to learn how ride a bike earlier in the summer and get outfitted with a new bicycle and helmet and take part in a race with 150 other kids.

The partnership between the Toronto Police, the Breakfast Club and Canadian Tire Jumpstart, saw kids given safe-cycling lessons at the start of the summer at Humber College alongside police officers.

“They were given a nutrition course and taught street-sign awareness and how to use turn signals,” said Const. Omar Tayara, a 51 Division Regent Park neighbourhood officer.

“The girls liked being outdoors and riding bicycles,” said Tayara. “Many had never biked before or owned a bike of their own.”

The two-kilometre race brought teams from 12, 14, 23, 31, 32 and 53 Divisions.

Along with his partner Const. Mircea Bija, Sgt. Sin Chiu and Const. Lisa Dunk, they decided to continue bike rides with the kids after the race.

“Seeing how happy they were, and how excited they were, we decided to keep it going,” Tayara said, of taking the kids on bike rides along the waterfront trail at the base of their Division.

“It gave them a chance to ride in their neighbourhood and make some friends.”

Tayara would like to continue the tradition with students who participate in next year’s program and expects this year’s group to volunteer with the race program next year and stay involved in police programs.

“As a Neighbourhood Officers, our job is to build a relationship with the community, develop a trust and bond with the community,” said Tayara.

“We get to build relationships with the kids and create a bond and also gain the confidence and trust of everyone in the community. It helps keep kids heading in the right direction and helps us build trust.”


Source

Tickets are available for the Building Bridges Fundraiser Gala November 12, 2013

Man wanted for attempted murder and other firearm-related offences, Kimani Clarke, 18, surrenders to police

Toronto Police Service News Release

Man wanted for attempted murder and other firearm-related offences, Kimani Clarke, 18, surrenders to police, Faces eight charges

Friday, October 18, 2013 - 8:52 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to advise the public that an arrest has been made in an attempted murder investigation.

On Tuesday, October 15, 2013, at 9:45 p.m., two 19-year-old men were on Wellesley Street East, west of Parliament Street, when a man approached and pointed a firearm at them.

See previous release.

On Friday, October 18, 2013, at approximately 2:15 p.m., Kimani Clarke, 18, of Toronto, surrendered to police at 51 Division.

He has been charged with:

1. two counts of Attempted Murder with a certain firearm
2. two counts of Discharge Firearm Endanger Life
3. Aggravated Assault
4. Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
5. Possession of a Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
6. Careless Use of a Firearm

He will appear in court at Old City Hall on Saturday, October 19, 2013, at 9 a.m.

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Thomas Steeves, 51 Division

Public safety alert, Federal pardons fraud investigation

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public safety alert, Federal pardons fraud investigation

Friday, October 18, 2013 - 2:53 PM
43 Division:  416-808-4307

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of an ongoing fraud investigation.

It is reported that:

- a company listed online as Federal Pardons Canada, advertises their services for processing pardons and waivers to enter the USA, for a nominal fee

- personal identification is requested by the company along with the fee

- the suspects make a phone call to the prospective client and arrange for the money and identification to be mailed to them or a meeting is scheduled to deliver the cash and documents in person, at a virtual office (a space leased out in a building)

- once the exchange of money and identification has occurred, the company no longer continues communications with the prospective client and no pardon or waiver documents are ever received

- at this time, it is known that Federal Pardons Canada has been operating online, as such, for approximately one year

Police are currently investigating these allegations and believe there are more victims.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Amanda Frederick at 416-808-4307, amanda.frederick@torontopolcie.on.ca, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), or Leave A Tip on Facebook. Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Amanda Frederick, 43 Division

Man wanted for attempted murder and firearms related charges, Kimani Clarke, 18

Toronto Police Service News Release

Man wanted for attempted murder and firearms related charges, Kimani Clarke, 18

Friday, October 18, 2013 - 2:47 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance locating a man wanted in an attempted murder investigation.

It is alleged that:

- on Tuesday, October 15, 2013, at 9:45 p.m., two 19-year-old men were on Wellesley Street East, west of Parliament Street, when a man approached and pointed a firearm at them

- the men attempted to flee the scene

- they were chased by the man who fired at them several times

- the man eventually caught up to one of them and shot him several times, while the second man was able to escape without injury

The victim was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Much of the incident was captured on CCTV video surveillance and the suspect has been identified.

Kimani Clarke, 18, is wanted for:

1. two counts of Attempted Murder
2. Discharge Firearm Endanger Life
3. Aggravated Assault
4. Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
5. Possession of a Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
6. Careless Use of a Firearm

He is described as having a dark black complexion, 6'2", 180 lbs., with short black hair and brown eyes.

Police believe he may be armed and should be considered dangerous.

Do not approach if located, call 9-1-1.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online atwww.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), or Leave A Tip on Facebook. Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Earle Davies, 51 Division

Road resurfacing work at Lower Jarvis Street

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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News Release:  October 17, 2013

Road resurfacing work at Lower Jarvis Street  

The City will be performing road resurfacing work at Lower Jarvis Street from Friday, October 18 at 5 p.m. to Saturday, October 19 at 2 p.m.  This work will result in some partial road closures in the area.

The eastbound Jarvis Street ramp from the Gardiner Expressway to Lake Shore Boulevard will be closed on Friday, October 18 at 10 p.m. to Saturday, October 19 at 2 p.m. to undertake the work.      

Partial closures of other streets in the area include:

• Market Street, from The Esplanade to Wilton Street • Wilton Street, from Lower Jarvis Street to Market Street • Lower Jarvis Street, from Queens Quay to The Esplanade

In addition to these closures, eastbound traffic on Lake Shore Boulevard will be reduced to one lane at times as crews perform this work.

The work being performed this weekend will involve grinding of the asphalt in preparation for paving that is scheduled for the weekend of October 26.  

More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/torontostreets/. In addition, T.O. INview, a map that shows information about planned capital construction work taking place across the city, can be accessed at www.toronto.ca/inview. 

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact:  Steve Johnston, Senior Communications Coordinator, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca 

Toronto Police Service Somali General Information Session/PREP Session

Toronto Police Service News Release

Toronto Police Service Somali General Information Session/PREP Session Saturday, November 2, 2013, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Toronto Police College, 70 Birmingham Street

Thursday, October 17, 2013 - 12:10 PM
Employment:  416-808-8101

The Toronto Police Service Benefits and Employment Unit, Recruiting Section, will be hosting a Somali General Information/PREP Session on Saturday, November 2, 2013, at the Toronto Police College, located at 70 Birmingham Street.

The information session offers potential candidates important information about becoming a police constable as well as civilian opportunities within the Toronto Police Service.

For those interested in becoming police constables, the information session will be followed by a practice PREP session, which provides practical knowledge of the physical fitness requirements.

This information session is only open to new candidates and advanced registration is required. Please contact Constable Wayne Jackson at wayne.jackson@torontopolice.on.ca or Constable Milton Ferguson at saintpage.ferguson@torontopolice.on.ca to register.

We encourage Somali men and women, 18 and older, with interest in a career in law enforcement to come forward and participate in the event.

To follow us on Facebook click here.
To follow us on Twitter click here.

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Constable Wayne Jackson, Benefits and Employment Unit

Careers in Law Enforcement

2013 French Community Consultative Committee Annual Fundraiser

Public Safety Alert "Grandparent Scam" Seniors being scammed out of thousands of dollars

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public Safety Alert "Grandparent Scam" Seniors being scammed out of thousands of dollars

Tuesday, October 15, 2013 - 3:10 PM
53 Division:  416-808-5300

The Toronto Police Service would like to alert the public to recent fraudulent schemes targeting seniors, specifically those with grandchildren.

Officers have received several calls reporting:

- a grandparent receives a phone call from a person claiming to be his or her grandchild

- the caller says that he or she is in some kind of trouble and needs money sent immediately

- depending on the call, the caller may say that he or she has been in a car accident, is having trouble returning from a foreign country or has been arrested and needs money to post as bail

- the caller specifically requests that the grandparent not tell anyone else about the call on the premise that it would be embarrassing or otherwise create problems in the family

- the grandparent sends the money as instructed by the caller

- the instructions involve sending money via a commercial wire transfer service such as Western Union or Money Gram.

Police believe that the callers in these cases obtain critical identifying information from obituaries or social media. Armed with this information, the callers can be very persuasive.

Police are asking the public to share this with anyone they know who may be a grandparent in an effort to prevent further victimization of seniors in our community.

For more information on this and other scams please click here. Please also see our short video on this type of scam by clicking here.

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Roxanne Doyle, 53 Division

Poster contest to help celebrate National Aboriginal History Month in Toronto

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

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News Release:  October 15, 2013

Poster contest to help celebrate National Aboriginal History Month in Toronto

The City of Toronto's Aboriginal Affairs Committee is launching a poster design contest in preparation for National Aboriginal History Month in June. The contest is open to all Aboriginal youth between the ages of 13 and 24 years old. The winning design will be used to help to promote events leading up to the 2014 National Aboriginal Day in Toronto.

"We’re looking for powerful images that evoke Toronto’s spirit, energy and unique Aboriginal character," said Councillor Mike Layton (Ward 19 Trinity-Spadina), Co-Chair of the Aboriginal Affairs Committee. "There is so much creativity in the Toronto Aboriginal community, and I'm sure the character will be well-portrayed. We are all looking forward to seeing all the entries."

Entries will be evaluated based on content, creativity, uniqueness, relevance to the contest theme and overall visual appeal. Entries must be paint, pencil, multi-media, photography or in an electronic design format. A panel of three people will judge the entries and all judges’ decisions are final.

Entries must be received by Friday, November 22 at 11:59 p.m. The winner will be notified by November 29 and announced publicly at the City of Toronto Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards, December 4. All submitted non-winning artwork can be retrieved from the City at the end of the contest period.

More information about how to enter and the contest rules are available at http://www.toronto.ca/diversity.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact: David Clark, Strategic Communications, 416-392-7542, dclark1@toronto.ca

Child abuse services under one roof

Karyn Kennedy, David Rivard, MP Bob Dechert, Emily Mathieu, Senator Don Meredith, Chief Bill Blair She was confused, traumatized, hurt and helpless. Those were some of Jane Peters’ (not her real name) feelings when she learned that her then-seven-year-old daughter was sexually abused nearly a decade ago. The first thing she and her then-husband did was contact their family pediatrician who advised that they touch base with the Children’s Aid Society. “We did that, but they never got back to us because I figure there was a huge backlog in cases, so my husband called Toronto Police and they put us in touch with Boost,” recalled Peters. “The police were instrumental in providing us with the information we needed, immediately, to start dealing with this mater. Once we connected with Boost, that changed the way in which our case was managed.” Boost Child Abuse Prevention & Intervention is a Toronto-based agency committed to eliminating abuse and violence in the lives of children, youth and their families. Following a visit to a police Division for the young girl to relate her terrifying ordeal to two officers, she had to go through the Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) Program run by The Hospital for Sick Children. SCAN is managed by a team of healthcare professionals, at the hospital, who offer care, support and assessment to children and teenagers who may have been maltreated, and their families. Peters then took her daughter back to Boost, which prepared the child and family for the court proceedings. “We had to deal with a patchwork of services that were scattered throughout the city,” said Peters. “We also had to prepare our daughter for each intervention along the way.” Children who have experienced abuse in the city will no longer have to travel around the city to get the help they need. On September 30, Toronto’s first Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) opened at 890 Yonge St. Now, young people who experience abuse will be able to get all the assistance they require from social services and police under one roof. “Having a child come to one location that is a child-friendly environment is amazing,” said Peters, now a Boost volunteer. “Going to a police Division is not the friendliest environment and a hospital can be alienating for a child when they are frightened. This is the perfect set-up.” The CYAC will be open to the public from Monday to Friday and there will be an on-call system in place for after-hours and weekends. Joining Boost at the new facility are the Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto, the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto, the Safe-T Program, SCAN and Toronto Police. “I remember, a number of years ago, when some remarkable people came in to see me and said we have to get better and smarter at this,” recounted Chief Bill Blair. “They recommended that we come together in a coordinated space to deliver services to young people and to ensure they didn’t have to travel all over this city and that no one fell through the cracks of our various services. There were a thousand big reasons why we shouldn’t do this, but everybody in the room acknowledged there were a lot of tall reasons why we should.” Boost is one of the community partners that played a pivotal role in the CYAC’s establishment. “This centre is the result of a lot of hard work by all of our partner agencies,” said executive director Karyn Kennedy. “This is a true community collaboration… The services that are offered by the CYAC are truly going to make a difference for children and youth in Toronto who have been abused. As all of you know, disclosing sexual or physical abuse is incredibly difficult. As professionals, we have a responsibility to make that as less traumatic, as easy and as comfortable as possible for children. “And, at the CYAC, that is exactly what we have done and what we will continue to do. We are going to offer a comfortable, child-friendly setting for all of our services and support that are offered in one place. It’s a first for Toronto and we are confident that our CYAC in Toronto will become a model for the rest of the country.” Police will investigate physical assaults, emotional abuse or neglect occurrences when the victim is under 16 and the suspect is a caregiver, parent or person in a position of trust or authority, or when the suspect is known and the offences are not within the mandate of the Sex Crimes Unit investigative office; and occurrences entitled “Child in Need of Protection” or Child Left Unattended.”

Glen Murray MPP - News From Queen's Park

Glen Murray MPP Toronto Centre 514 Parliament Street Toronto, Ontario M4X 1P4 P: 416-972-7683 F: 416-972-7686 News from Queen's Park Youth Employment: The new Ontario government is investing $195 million over the next two years to get youth working. The Youth Employment Fund is part of the province's Youth Jobs Strategy that will provide 25, 000 new jobs to youth, with a focus on those who face multiple barriers including disabilities and youth from disadvantaged communities. If you're between the ages of 15-29 and currently looking for work, visit your local Employment Ontario provider to see if you are eligible to participate. 2014 Celebrate Ontario: Celebrate Ontario is a $20 million annual program that helps festivals and events enhance their program, activities and services. All local organizations in Toronto Center are encouraged to submit applications, should they wish to be considered for funding. The deadline to apply is on November 12, 2013 at 5 p.m. After-School Program - Helping Kids of Toronto Center Stay Healthy and Active: The province is expanding it's funding to the After-School Program by $13 million this year, in order to provide more opportunities for children and youth to stay healthy and active in our communities. The St. James Town Family Literacy Services (Community Matters) received funding to run programs at Rose Avenue Public School. Please contact our office for more information. #CycleOn - Ontario's new cycling strategy: The province has developed a 20-year plan to support and promote safe cycling infrastructure as a viable and sustainable mode of transportation to reduce congestion, encourage healthy living, and strengthen the economy. You can read more here. Full-Day Kindergarten: Preparing students for a productive and successful future requires equipping them with the tools they need, early on. Full-Day Kindergarten is part of the Ontario government's plan to create a fair and prosperous society. In Toronto Center, all but two schools (Collège Français élémentaire and St. Michael's Choir (Jr) School) will have Full-Day Kindergarten available. To read more about the benefits of FDK, please click here to read the latest report. Condominium Act Review: On September 24th, the Public Policy Forum released a Solution Report on how issues arising from the Condominium Act can be resolved. The public is welcomed to review and provide feedback until November 8, 2013. The report will later be turned into Ontario's Condo Action Plan that will provide stronger protection for condo buyers, safeguard investments for current owners, and improve the everyday lives of people who live and work in condo communities. Upcoming Community Events Event: 25 Richmond Street East Community Consultation Date:October 15, 2013, 7-9 pm Location: St. James Cathedral Centre, 65 Church St. Details:The City of Toronto will be having public consultations about the planning application for 25 Richmond Street East. Event: Help Decide the Future of the Gardiner Expressway East Date: October 16, 2013, 6:30-9 pm Location: Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street Details: Public consultation on the Gardiner Expressway/Lake Shore Boulevard East reconfiguration environmental assessment and integrated urban design study. Event: Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy - Community Conversations Date: October 21, 2013, 6-8 pm Location: City Hall Rotunda, 100 Queen Street West Details: Come join a community conversation about the key issues facing Toronto's neighbourhoods. Event: Berczy Park Revitalization Public Meeting Date: October 23, 2013, 7-9:00 pm Location: St. Lawrence North Market Building, 92 Front Street East Details: The local community is invited to attend this meeting and provide input on the revitalization project. Event: Reaching Out Through Music and the St. James Town Children's Choir Date:October 24, 2013, 7-9 pm Location: Rose Avenue Public School, 675 Ontario Street Details: Come out to Rose Avenue Public School for a night of music. Event: Bell Box Murals Project 2013 Date: October 30, 2013, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Location: Center for Social Innovation Regent Park - Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas Street East Details: Come views images and videos of the murals and meet the artits and partners of the 2013 Bell Box Murals Project. Event: Employment & Opportunities Youth Fair Date: October 26, 2013 from 1-4 pm Location: Metro Hall Rotunda, 55 John Street Details: Job and volunteer opportunities with on-the-spot interviews. Bring your resume! Happy Thanksgiving! On October 14, we celebrate the harvest and appreciate our blessings. Happy Eid-al-Adha! On October 15/16, the Muslim community will  be celebrating the Festival of Sacrifice to mark the end of Hajj (pilgrimage).

Our mailing address is: 514 Parliament Street, Toronto, ON, M4X 1P4 Tel: 416-972-7683 Email: gmurray.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org Web: www.glenmurray.ca