Monday, December 30, 2013

Mayor Ford invites Toronto residents to welcome in the New Year

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

Media Advisory:  December 30, 2013      
 
Mayor Ford invites Toronto residents to welcome in the New Year

Toronto Mayor Rob Ford and City Councillors are inviting residents to join them at the Mayor's New Year's Levee that will be held at City Hall on Wednesday, January 1, 2014.

This traditional levee marks the start of the New Year and gives residents an opportunity to exchange greetings with the Mayor and City Councillors.

Date: Wednesday, January 1
Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
Location: Rotunda, Toronto City Hall, 100 Queen St. W.

Note to media: As interaction with city residents is the main purpose of this event, there will be no opportunity for media interviews with the Mayor at the levee.

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Deborah Brown, Strategic Communications, 416-919-6501, dbrown3@toronto.ca

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Update and advice regarding ice storm

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Update and advice regarding ice storm, 25 major intersections to be policed

Tuesday, December 24, 2013 - 10:51 AM
Corporate Communications
416-808-7100

On Tuesday, December 24, 2013, from 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the following 25 major intersections will be policed, to assist in the smooth and safe flow of traffic and ease congestion:

  • Black Creek Drive & Lawrence Avenue
  • Spadina Road & St. Clair Avenue
  • Dufferin Street & Rogers Road
  • Ellis Avenue & The Queensway
  • The East Mall & Rathburn Road
  • Bloor Street & The Kingsway
  • Yonge Street & Sheppard Avenue
  • Bayview Avenue & Finch Avenue
  • Avenue Road & Lawrence Avenue
  • Bayview Avenue & York Mills 
  • Victoria Park Avenue & Steeles Avenue 
  • Kennedy Road & Lawrence Avenue
  • Danforth Road & Danforth Avenue
  • Danforth Road & Victoria Park Avenue
  • Danforth Road & Warden Avenue
  • Danforth Road & Brimley Road
  • Kingston Road & Port Union Road
  • Kingston Road & Lawrence Avenue
  • Morningside Road & Ellesmere Road
  • Kingston Road & Eglinton Avenue East
  • Scarborough Golf Club Road & Lawrence Avenue
  • Markham Road Eglinton Avenue East
  • Bayview Avenue & Lawrence Avenue
  • Danforth Road & Broadview Avenue
  • Don Mills Road & Eglinton Avenue

As Toronto Hydro continues to work to restore power, there are still many signalized intersections without power. The Toronto Police Service would like to remind the public the law requires that all non-signalized or non-functioning signalized intersections are to be treated like a four-way stop. Drivers should slow down, take a few extra seconds at each intersection, and make sure that they are going through safely.

We are asking for the public's cooperation in helping police keep the 9-1-1 lines as clear as possible. 9-1-1 is for emergencies only. Anyone with non-urgent police matters should call the Toronto Police Service Non-Emergency number at 416-808-2222.

On Sunday and Monday, TPS communications operators took 21,877 calls, 15,543 of which were 9-1-1 calls. To compare, the flood on July 8, 2013 generated 9,357 total calls.

We are continuing to bring in extra staff to assist with issues raised by the storm. As we do this, we would like to remind people that, for storm-related non-emergencies, 3-1-1 is the best number to call. Anyone looking to report wires down or hydro service interruptions should call Toronto Hydro at 416-542-8000.

The TPS has opened warming centres in 13 police buildings. For a list of these locations, click here.

Finally, anyone with neighbours who are elderly or have mobility issues is encouraged to check in on them and ensure their well-being. Additionally, if you can share any information you have regarding reporting issues with those who may not have access to the information, it would be greatly appreciated.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications

City of Toronto issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert and advises homeless people to seek shelter

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release:  December 24, 2013

City of Toronto issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert and advises homeless people to seek shelter

The City of Toronto has called an Extreme Cold Weather Alert to make vulnerable homeless people in Toronto aware of the dangers of staying outside too long in cold weather and to ensure they have safe and warm places to go. The alert is in effect until further notice.

An Extreme Cold Weather Alert is called to trigger additional homelessness services. Alerts are typically called in the morning for the coming overnight period so that community agencies have sufficient time to call in extra staff to provide enhanced services.

During an Extreme Cold Weather Alert:
• Shelters are directed to relax any existing service restrictions and are reminded that if a bed is not available at their site, they are to allow the client to stay at the shelter until they are able to find a bed for them elsewhere in the system.
• The City of Toronto immediately adds additional shelter spaces for men and women to the shelter spaces available to staff looking to refer a client to a shelter bed.
• Overnight street outreach is increased in the downtown core, focusing solely on warning people of danger and urging them to get into a shelter or another warm, indoor place. Workers will transport people to warm places if necessary.
• TTC tokens are available at some drop-ins so people can use public transit to get to shelters.
• More than 100 agencies are advised of the oncoming extreme weather and asked to relax any service restrictions they may have.

An alert is called when there is increased danger to homeless people from extreme cold weather or extreme winter weather conditions. It is usually called in the morning when Environment Canada takes any of these actions:
• predicts a coming overnight temperature of -15 degrees Celsius or lower, without wind chill • issues a wind chill warning for outdoor activity for people in the Toronto area • predicts extreme weather conditions such as a blizzard, ice storm or sudden drops in temperature

How to get an emergency shelter bed any day, any hour:
• Call 311, or
• Directly contact the City of Toronto's Central Intake line; within the Greater Toronto Area it is toll-free at 1-877-338 3398, or • Go in person to the Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre, located at 129 Peter St. (at Richmond Street).

The Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre is always open and has 24-hour street respite for those who do not want a shelter bed, or for whom one is not immediately available. As well as walk-in access to shelter beds throughout the system, the facility provides housing workers Monday to Friday to assist street-involved people to find permanent housing and operates a 40-bed transition to housing shelter program.

If you see someone who you think requires street outreach assistance, call 311. Note that 311 is not an emergency number. In an emergency, dial 911.

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Pat Anderson, Manager, Partnership Development and Support, Shelter, Support and Housing Administration, 416-397-4328, panders@toronto.ca

Sexual Assault Alert, Public assistance sought identifying man, Security camera images released

Toronto Police Service
News Release



Above: Public assistance
sought identifying man in
sexual assault investigation
Sexual Assault Alert,
Public assistance sought identifying man,
Security camera images released


51 Division:  416-808-7474

The Toronto Police Service is alerting the public to a sexual assault investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Friday, December 20, 2013, at 6:30 p.m., a man approached a 31-year-old woman in the Shuter Street/Sherbourne Street area, where he asked her to perform a sexual act and threatened her with bodily harm

- the female fled and was uninjured

- shortly after, a man approached a 30-year-old woman in the Moss Park area, where he engaged her in a conversation that made her feel very uncomfortable

- the woman fled and was uninjured

- on Sunday, December 22, 2013, at 6:50 p.m., a man approached a 25-year-old woman in theSimcoe Street/Richmond Street West area and sexually assaulted her

- at 7:15 p.m., a man approached a 29-year-old woman in the Shuter Street/Victoria Street area and sexually assaulted her

- at 7:30 p.m., a man approached a 26-year-old woman in the Adelaide Street East/Sherbourne Street area and sexually assaulted her

The man is described as white, 20-30, approximately 6'. He was wearing a long black coat and a black toque.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Larry Vieira at 416-808-7474, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), orLeave A Tip on Facebook. Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.


A sexual assault is defined by the Criminal Code of Canada as any form of unwanted sexual contact. It includes, but is not limited to, kissing, grabbing, oral sex and penetration. To learn more about sexual assault, including how to report a sexual assault, please visit our Sex Crimes Unit website.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Larry Vieira, Sex Crimes Unit

Above: Public assistance sought identifying man in sexual assault investigation


City of Toronto ice storm update on Tuesday morning

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release

December 24, 2013

City of Toronto ice storm update on Tuesday morning

The City of Toronto is continuing to provide updated information this morning on ongoing impacts and the City's response to the ice storm.

Toronto Hydro
Toronto Hydro is reporting that it has made significant progress overnight, with approximately 115,000 customers now without power. Hydro crews are continuing to work around the clock to respond.

Toronto Fire Service
Toronto Fire is warning the public not to operate propane, natural gas or charcoal barbecues inside as they can create a dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning hazard if not property vented. Also, do not use a stove or camping gear for heating your home, as they can similarly create a carbon monoxide poisoning and burn hazard. Ensure battery backup is operating for carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

Community Care Access Centre Clients
Community Care Access Centre clients who use home oxygen and have concerns can call 310-2222 (no area code required) for assistance. All others are asked to contact their oxygen supplier for assistance.

TTC
Please check www.ttc.ca for updates and service alerts.

GO Transit
GO Transit is operating an Adjusted Winter Schedule today. Schedule details are available at http://gotransit.com/public/en/schedules/winterstorm.aspx.

Toronto Roads and Traffic
Salting operations are continuing on collector roads, local roads and sidewalks, with TTC stops a priority. Parking consideration will be provided for residents who park on the street beyond posted times due to limited access to icy driveways. The following roads in Scarborough are closed to traffic, as they are not safe due to fallen power lines and trees:
- Old Kingston Road from Military Trail to Manse Road
- Military Trail from Old Kingston Road to Bobmar Road
- St. Andrews Road from Meldazy Drive to Suraty Avenue
- Colonel Danforth Trail - Bonacres Avenue to dead end
- Highview Avenue at Lillington Avenue
- Pinegrove Road at South Edgely Avenue

Food, Water, Warmth and Rest
The City is operating 12 locations where vulnerable residents and those who need assistance can access food, water, warmth and rest. Pets are welcome.

A total of 774 people were accommodated in these locations last night.
Toronto Community Centre locations are as follows:
Dennis R Timbrell Community Centre, 
29 St. Denis Dr. (Eglinton/Don Mills) Malvern Community Centre, 
30 Sewells Rd. (Neilson/Finch) Agincourt Community Centre, 
31 Glen Walford Rd. (Sheppard/Midland) Driftwood Community Centre, 
4401 Jane St. (between Finch and Steeles) Mitchell Field Community Centre, 
89 Church Ave. (Yonge/Finch) Joseph P Piccininni Community Centre, 
1369 St Clair Ave. W. (St Clair/Keele) Matty Eckler Community Centre, 
953 Gerrard St. E. (Pape/Gerrard) Lawrence Heights Middle School, 
50 Highland Hill (between Ranee and Dane) Edithvale Community Centre, 
131 Finch Ave. W. (between Bathurst and Yonge) Pleasantview Community Centre, 
545 Van Horne Ave. (between Edmonton and Brian) East York Collegiate Institute, 
650 Cosburn Ave. (Coswell/Coxwell) McGregor Park Community Centre, 
2231 Lawrence Ave. E. (Lawrence/Kennedy)

In addition, 13 Toronto Police Service facilities have been identified as having community rooms available for use 24/7 as warming centres:

Division 11 – 2054 Davenport Road (Davenport/Osler) 
Division 12 – 200 Trethewey Drive (Trethewey/Black Creek) 
Division 14 – 350 Dovercourt Road (College/Dovercourt) 
Division 22 – 3699 Bloor Street West (Bloor West/Dundas West) 
Division 23 – 5230 Finch Avenue West (Kipling/Finch) 
Division 31 – 40 Norfinch Road (Norfinch/Finch West) 
Division 33 – 50 Upjohn Road (York Mills/Don Mills) 
Division 42 – 242 Milner Avenue (Milner/Markham) 
Division 51 – 51 Parliament Street (Front/Parliament) 
Division 52 - 255 Dundas Street West (LOBBY ONLY) 
Toronto Police Service College – 70 Birmingham Street (Birmingham/Fifth) 
Toronto Police Service Headquarters – 40 College Street (College/Bay)

Warming Centres – daytime only:
The public is invited to any City building with public space. Due to food safety guidelines, the public is asked not to bring home-made food to the warming/reception centres. Pre-packaged foods are acceptable.

Shelter beds
The City of Toronto will also be making additional shelter spaces/beds available because of the extremely cold weather today.

Toronto Public Libraries
On Tuesday, December 24, all open branches will have holiday hours from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. At least 77 branches expect to be open with full library services - and they can also be used as warming locations. Complete information on locations that are open is available at http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca.

Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo remains closed today, December 24, for site maintenance related to the ice storm. The zoo will be closed tomorrow, December 25, as scheduled. Updates: http://www.torontozoo.com

Casa Loma
Casa Loma remains without power and is closed today, December 24. It will also be closed tomorrow, December 25, as scheduled. Updates: http://www.casaloma.org

Parks, Forestry and Recreation
Reminder to public that trees remain covered in ice which means parks (anywhere near trees) are very dangerous, particularly in wooded valleys, near slopes and under trees. Park pathways have not been cleared and should not be used. Playgrounds should also be avoided near trees due to falling branches. Public should use extreme caution around parks to prevent slips and falls and should avoid walking under or near trees.

Parks staff who have appropriate chainsaw training and equipment are being deployed to assist in clearing tree debris from roads and paths.

Parks crews will continue to salt and clear debris, focusing on Reception Centres, Community Recreation Centres, parking lots and well-used locations such as rinks.

Two of the City's 51 Outdoor Artificial Ice Rinks are currently closed (Broadlands and Ledbury). Other rink pads remain open for skating purposes, but adjacent rink buildings are closed at many locations due to power outages. Many of these locations will close early due to no lighting availability.

Holiday Waste Pickup
Residents are reminded that there is no collection on Christmas Day or New Year's Day.  This week and next week, curbside collection on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will move forward one day. This means that Wednesday collection moves to Thursday, Thursday collection moves to Friday, and Friday collection moves to Saturday. Changes are reflected in the residential collection calendar.

Preventing Frozen Pipes
If you don't have heat for your home and the temperature drops to well below freezing, consider leaving a tap open enough for a trickle of water so there is some movement of water in pipes that might be vulnerable to freezing.

If you are leaving your home because of no heat, you can shut off the main service valve in your basement and open your lowest tap to drain the water out of your plumbing lines to prevent them from freezing.

Food Safety
For more information about when to keep and when to throw out refrigerated foods, visit http://www.toronto.ca/health/food_safety  and click on the power outages link on the bottom of the page. 

Bike Share Program (BIXI)
The bike share program will be closed until December 28 in order to clear ice from the various stations and bikes.

Emergency Preparedness
Information and advice about emergency preparedness are available at http://www.toronto.ca/oem.

Social Media Updates
For updates during an emergency event and other City of Toronto information, follow @TorontoComms on Twitter. The City will be using #citystorm when providing updates on the storm.

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Wynna Brown, Strategic Communications, 416-919-6503, wbrown1@toronto.ca

Friday, December 20, 2013

Arrest in fraud investigation, Kijiji classified advertisements - cars for sale

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Arrest in fraud investigation, Kijiji classified advertisements - cars for sale

Friday, December 20, 2013 - 3:20 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

On Thursday, December 19, 2013, police arrested a man in a fraud investigation involving classified advertisements on Kijiji and the selling of various vehicles.

It is alleged that:

- the accused accepted a cash deposit from a buyer

- after receiving payment, he avoided any further contact with the buyer and never finalized the sale or delivered the vehicle as promised

Andre Mais-Christie, 36, of Pickering, has been charged with:

1. Breach of Probation Order
2. Possession of Fraudulent Identity Documents
3. Possession of Proceeds Obtained by Crime

He is scheduled to appear in court at College Park on Tuesday, January 28, 2014, 2 p.m.

Police belive there may be more victims.

Anyone with information is asked 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 Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Ian Searles, 51 Division

HQ coat drive warming up


Coats, hats, gloves, boots are piling up at police headquarters, all destined to keep those in need stay warm this winter.   


Kate Drummond was one of many members of the public to drop off coats that she gathered up by helping friends clean out their closets.

“I believe that we need to take care of each other, and when I have the ability to help someone, especially someone in my own community, then I’m going to do whatever I can to do so,” said the actress.

PHOTO: Kate Drummond
After hearing a cold weather alert she was looking for an opportunity to give out clothes she had gathered. The Toronto Police coat drive she noticed on social media inspired her to send out Tweets and Facebook on her own to call upon friends to see if they’re might be anything in their closet too. The result was a car full of clothes she delivered to 40 College St.

“It’s a tough time of year for a lot of people. And when we open our eyes to our community we can see there is so much need,” said Drummond, who uses the Twitter handle @Gotta_Be_K_D.

Const. Joanne Tawton, who organized the coat drive for the second year along with Duty Desk Operator Gary Long, said shelters are reporting a great need for winter coats.

“There are a lot of people that need help staying warm this winter,” said Tawton, who is once again overwhelmed at the generosity of Service members and the public alike.

The clothing will be distributed to shelters across the city.


Any gently used winter coats, gloves, scarves and toques can be dropped off in the decorated bins in the lobby of police headquarters at 40 College St. until Dec. 31 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.  

Thursday, December 19, 2013

Man arrested in sexual assault investigation, Yonatan Mekonnen, 30, Update, Police believe there may be more victims, Photograph released of man

Toronto Police Service
News Release
Yonatan Mekonnen, 30,
charged with sexual assault

Man arrested in sexual assault investigation, Yonatan Mekonnen, 30, Update, Police believe there may be more victims, Photograph released of man

Thursday, December 19, 2013 - 3:11 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7474

The Toronto Police Service would like to update the public regarding a sexual assault investigation.

On Tuesday, December 17, 2013, Yonatan Mekonnen, 30, of Toronto, was arrested and charged with:

1. Sexual Assault

See previous release.

He is scheduled to appear in court at College Park on Friday, December 20, 2013, at 10 a.m.

Police believe there may be more victims. A photograph of Yonatan Mekonnen has been released.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7474, 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.

A sexual assault is defined by the Criminal Code of Canada as any form of unwanted sexual contact. It includes, but is not limited to, kissing, grabbing, oral sex and penetration. To learn more about sexual assault, including how to report a sexual assault, please visit our Sex Crimes Unit website.

Constable Sarah Diamond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Larry Vieira, Sex Crimes Unit

Land Use Planning and Appeals Report-Final input due January 10th, 2014










Land Use Planning and Appeals Report-Final input due January 10th, 2014

Dear friend,

I would like to use this opportunity to thank everyone who has taken the time to participate in the recent Land Use Planning and Appeals review meetings that we have held over the past month. I am consistently amazed and impressed at the dedication and knowledge that we have here in Toronto Centre when it comes to issues that are important to our neighbourhoods. It is a very busy time of year and I appreciate you taking the time out of what can be a hectic schedule to spend some time contributing to this review.

A copy of the report that has been created by our office to serve as a summary of these meetings have been posted at www.torontocenterplan.org.  This report will act as a joint submission from Toronto Centre. The deadline for submissions to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing for this review is January 10th, 2014, so there is still time for us to work together to provide a clear vision of what solutions work in Toronto Centre.

If you have any comments or questions on this document, please email our office at gmurray.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org, or phone us to leave your comments. Alternatively, if you would like to submit your comments directly to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, visit http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page10357.aspx to learn about the different ways that you can participate as an individual.

I would like to thank you again for your participation in this process and I look forward to continuing our work together on this issue and others. I would like to wish you all the best in the New Year and I hope you have a safe and happy holiday season.

Sincerely,

Glen Murray
MPP Toronto Centre

City of Toronto's annual Christmas Choral Concert

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

Media Advisory:  December 19, 2013
 
City of Toronto's annual Christmas Choral Concert

The City of Toronto invites the public to celebrate the season on Tuesday, December 24 at the annual Christmas Choral Celebration. This year's event will be hosted by Tammie Sutherland from CityNews and includes performances by All the King's Voices, Toronto Beaches Children's Chorus, Toronto Mass Choir, Tower Brass and organist James Bourne.

This free and festive concert lasts approximately one hour and will conclude with a visit from Santa. Sign language interpretation will be provided. More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/choralconcert.htm.

Date: Tuesday, December 24
Time: 11:30 a.m.
Location: Rotunda, City Hall, 100 Queen St. W.

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: RoseMarie DeMarco, Protocol, 416-392-8191, rdemarc@toronto.ca

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Come visit BINDIA, Market Street's first new restaurant!!!

Tell them you heard of them from our CPLC site and ask for the buy 1 entree get another half off special!


Glen Murray MPP - News from Queen's Park



News from Queen's Park


More Children and Youth to Receive Free Dental Care
Starting April 2014, Ontario is expanding eligibility for free dental care to 70,000 more low-income children and youth aged 17 and under and will improve access to dental care. In order to qualify for the Healthy Smiles Ontario program, families need to have an Adjusted Family Net Income of $21,513 or less for one child, increasing by approximately $1,500 for each additional child. Children of social assistance recipients will be automatically enrolled into this new dental program, while all other low-income families will be able to apply through a simplified and streamlined application process. As of August 2015, six publicly funded dental programs will be integrated into one to provide seamless enrollment, making it easier for eligible children and youth to receive timely dental care.

OPS Ontario Internship Program and Summer Employment Opportunities
The Ministry of Government Services has announced the 2014 launch dates for the Ontario Internship Program (OIP) and Summer Employment Opportunities (SEO). The application period for OIP interns opens on January 2, 2014, and closes at noon on January 21, 2014. This one-year paid internship is open to all those with a recognized degree, diploma or postgraduate certificate, please visit the OIP webpage to learn more about how to apply. The SEO will hire approximately 5,000 high school and postsecondary students across the province, in 2014. The first job ads will be posted on February 14 to March 2 for a 10 to 16 weeks long that would begin in May, 2014. The second set of job ads will be posted on March 21 to April 6 for a 10 weeks employment opportunity, to commence on June 1st. Updated information on summer student employment will be available on our SEO webpage by January 3, 2014.

Health coverage for refugee claimants
Effective January 1, 2014, the Ontario Temporary Health Program (OTHP) will provide access to essential and urgent health care, as well as medications coverage to refugee claimants living in Ontario, regardless of the status of their claim or the country they are from. More can be read here.  

Upcoming Community Events

Today is the first skate day at Moss Park arena, from 4:00pm - 5:00pm. There will be no skating on Tuesday December 24th and Tuesday December 31st. Skating will take place every Tuesday from January 7th to March 11th, 4:00 - 5:00pm at 140 Sherbourne Street (Moss Park Arena). We could use some volunteers on skating days, if you are available please contact our constituency office at (416) 972-7683 or by e-mail: gmurray.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

Tomorrow, Wednesday December 18 at 6:30pm, we will be having the last community consultation on Land Use Planning and Appeals Review at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School (1 Garfield Avenue). 


Happy Holidays


Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Please note that the constituency office will be closed as of December 20th and will reopen on January 2nd, 2014.

Man arrested in sexual assault investigation, Church Street and Wellesley Street

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Man arrested in sexual assault investigation, Church Street and Wellesley Street

Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 10:44 AM
51 Division:  416-808-7474

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of an arrest in a sexual assault investigation.

It is alleged that:

- on Sunday, December 8, 2013, at approximately 2:30 a.m., a woman was in theChurch Street/Wellesley Street area

On Tuesday, December 17, 2013, Yonatan Mekonnen, 30, of Toronto, was arrested and charged with:

1. Sexual Assault

He was scheduled to appear in court at College Park on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 at 10 a.m.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7474, 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.


A sexual assault is defined by the Criminal Code of Canada as any form of unwanted sexual contact. It includes, but is not limited to, kissing, grabbing, oral sex and penetration. To learn more about sexual assault, including how to report a sexual assault, please visit our Sex Crimes Unit website.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Phil Campbell, Sex Crimes Unit

Extreme Cold Weather Alert cancelled for Toronto

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release:  December 17, 2013

Extreme Cold Weather Alert cancelled for Toronto

The City of Toronto has cancelled the Extreme Cold Weather Alert that was issued for Toronto on December 16.

An alert is called when there is danger to homeless people from extreme cold weather or extreme winter weather conditions. It is usually called in the morning when Environment Canada takes any of these actions:
• predicts a coming overnight temperature of -15 degrees Celsius or lower, without wind chill, or 
• issues a wind chill warning for outdoor activity for people in the Toronto area, or 
• predicts extreme weather conditions, such as a blizzard, an ice storm or sudden drops in temperature.

More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/housing.

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.

- 30 -


Media contact: Pat Anderson, Manager, Partnership Development and Support, Shelter, Support and Housing Administration, 416-397-4328, panders@toronto.ca

Monday, December 16, 2013

City of Toronto issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert and advises homeless people to seek shelter

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release:  December 16, 2013

City of Toronto issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert and advises homeless people to seek shelter

 The City of Toronto has called an Extreme Cold Weather Alert to make vulnerable homeless people in Toronto aware of the dangers of staying outside too long in cold weather and to ensure they have safe and warm places to go. The alert is in effect until further notice.

An Extreme Cold Weather Alert is called to trigger additional homelessness services. Alerts are typically called in the morning for the coming overnight period so that community agencies have sufficient time to call in extra staff to provide enhanced services.

During an Extreme Cold Weather Alert:
• Shelters are directed to relax any existing service restrictions and are reminded that if a bed is not available at their site, they are to allow the client to stay at the shelter until they are able to find a bed for them elsewhere in the system.
• The City of Toronto immediately adds 26 shelter spaces for men and women to the shelter spaces available to staff looking to refer a client to a shelter bed.
• Overnight street outreach is increased in the downtown core, focusing solely on warning people of danger and urging them to get into a shelter or another warm, indoor place. Workers will transport people to warm places if necessary.
• TTC tokens are available at some drop-ins so people can use public transit to get to shelters.
• More than 100 agencies are advised of the oncoming extreme weather and asked to relax any service restrictions they may have.

An alert is called when there is increased danger to homeless people from extreme cold weather or extreme winter weather conditions. It is usually called in the morning when Environment Canada takes any of these actions:
• predicts a coming overnight temperature of -15 degrees Celsius or lower, without wind chill 
• issues a wind chill warning for outdoor activity for people in the Toronto area 
• predicts extreme weather conditions such as a blizzard, ice storm or sudden drops in temperature

How to get an emergency shelter bed any day, any hour:
• Call 311, or
• Directly contact the City of Toronto's Central Intake line; within the Greater Toronto Area it is toll-free at 1-877-338 3398, or 
• Go in person to the Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre, located at 129 Peter St. (at Richmond Street).

The Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre is always open and has 24-hour street respite for those who do not want a shelter bed, or for whom one is not immediately available. As well as walk-in access to shelter beds throughout the system, the facility provides housing workers Monday to Friday to assist street-involved people to find permanent housing and operates a 40-bed transition to housing shelter program.

If you see someone who you think requires street outreach assistance, call 311. Note that 311 is not an emergency number. In an emergency, dial 911.

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: Pat Anderson, Manager, Partnership Development and Support, Shelter, Support and Housing Administration, 416-397-4328, panders@toronto.ca

Saturday, December 14, 2013

Community to Host Nelson Mandela Tribute This Sunday, December 15th

TORONTO, Dec. 12, 2013 /CNW/ - Residents of Toronto in partnership with a coalition of student, community and faith groups from across Toronto would like to invite you to attend a celebration of the legacy of Nelson Mandela.

The Nelson Mandela Memorial Action & Tribute will be held on Sunday, December 15th, 2013.
Location: Daniel's Spectrum in Regent Park - 585 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2B7 - near the Nelson Mandela Park Public School.
Time: 5 pm - 7 pmDoors will open at 5 pm. The event will start at 5:30 pm.
Facebook: Search "Madiba - Nelson Mandela Memorial and Tribute - Toronto"
Twitter: #mandelatributeTO
The program will include performances and speakers that will pay tribute to Nelson Mandela and the anti-apartheid movement.
Confirmed Speakers:
•  Dr. Kofi Hope - Managing Director - CEE 'Community Empowering Enterprises' 
•  Prof. Anver Saloojee - African National Congress Tentative
•  Mr. Roger Love - African Canadian Legal Clinic
•  Ms. Yolen Bollo Kamara - Canadian Federation of Students-Ontario.
and a special representative of the South African people -
•     Ms. Tselane Mokuena - Consul General -  South African High Commission.
The event is hosted by a coalition of student, community and faith groups from across the City of Toronto.
It is a free event open to all community members. 
Mandela's dedication to fighting injustice and racial segregation by ending apartheid was one of the most important contributions of the 20th century. 
Mandela taught us the power of action, but he also taught us the power of ideas. 

Thank you Mangia & Bevi, Great supporters of the CPLC

Drop by for THE BEST PIZZA IN TOWN at 260 King Street East and tell them hello from the CPLC!

Use the red door at the Ontario Street entrance.  They're on the main floor just to the right!

Friday, December 13, 2013

Mill St. Brewery donates toys to 51 Division Annual Toy Drive

Mill St. Brewery donates toys to 51 Division Annual Toy Drive

Mill Street Brewery made a special presentation of toys to be added to the 51 Division Toy Drive this December. Along with the Mayor of St Lawrence Bob Kemp, CPLC’s Co Chair Deb Devgan, Inspectors, Superintendants, Staff Sergeants and Police Officers as well as the Salvation Army, Steve Abrams and his girls dropped off a truck-load of unwrapped gifts to help fill up the bins that will go to children less fortunate. 
The Toy Drive ran from December 1 to December 24 and does so every year, so be on your best behaviour and contribute a gift to a needy child in the area this and every holiday season, new, unwrapped items may be dropped off 24/7 during those days at 51 Parliament Street.
Photos by Fraser Douglas at SNAPDowntownToronto:  http://snapd.at/eekze9





Sexual Assault Alert, Composite sketch of man released

Toronto Police Service
News Release
Above: Composite sketch
of man wanted in
sexual assault investigation

Sexual Assault Alert, Composite sketch of man released

Friday, December 13, 2013 - 3:14 PM
Sex Crimes Unit:  416-808-7474

The Toronto Police Service is asking for the public's assistance identifying a man wanted in a sexual assault investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Sunday, December 8, 2013, at approximately 2:30 a.m., a woman was in the Church Street/Wellesley Street area 


- the woman got separated from her friends

- the woman ended up in a car driven by a man, taken to an unknown location and sexually assaulted

The man is described as black, with a light complexion, 25-34, approximately 5'8" with a medium build, and a chin-strap beard.

The car is described as a late-model silver Honda Civic, possibly a two-door coupe.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constables Larry Vieira or Phillip Campbell at 416-808-7474, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online
Above:  Car similar to
that described by witness
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.


A sexual assault is defined by the Criminal Code of Canada as any form of unwanted sexual contact. It includes, but is not limited to, kissing, grabbing, oral sex and penetration. To learn more about sexual assault, including how to report a sexual assault, please visit our Sex Crimes Unit website.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Larry Vieira, Sex Crimes Unit

Excellent work recently recognized at Awards Ceremony

DETECTIVE DEBBIE HARRIS & POLICE CONSTABLE MARK KENNEDY OF 51 DIVISION

In January 2011 a series of arson occurrences occurred.  A designated historic building was intentionally set on fire.  The incident was classified as a six alarm fire and damage was estimated to be in excess of $3,000,000.  The area was cordoned off and secured to facilitate the continuing investigation and to ensure the safety of the community.  The lead police investigator was Detective Debbie Harris.

From January 2011 to July 2012 several other fires occurred.  Constable Mark Kennedy took an interest in arson investigation and assisted Detective Harris.  He identified a viable suspect who was wanted on a warrant for failing to comply with the terms of a Probation Order.  The warrant was executed and the suspect was placed under arrest.  Detective Harris and Constable Kennedy interviewed the accused on video.

Over a period of time Detective Harris established a rapport with the accused. This assisted her in gaining his cooperation and led to the suspect providing information to Detective Harris.  He readily admitted to setting fires in hotels to kill residents who had confronted him regarding his activities.  He clearly indicated that he wanted to hurt the people and that he started fires because he “got a kick” out of it.  He admitted to a lifelong involvement with intentionally setting fires and provided details regarding a number of other arson occurrences for which he was responsible and he also admitted that he was hired to set them.

Following the suspect’s confession, Detective Harris and Constable Kennedy made concerted efforts to verify the details.  In October 2012 the suspect plead guilty to a total of eight criminal charges including arson and attempted murder.

The success of the investigation was in large part made possible by outstanding teamwork and collaboration with Toronto Fire Services and the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshall.

IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR PROFESSIONALISM AND DEDICATION TO COMMUNITY SAFETY, DETECTIVE DEBBIE HARRIS AND POLICE CONSTABLE MARK KENNEDY ARE AWARDED WITH COMMENDATION.



DETECTIVE BARRY RADFORD AND POLICE CONSTABLES ELIZABETH HARNETT & IAN SEARLES OF 51 DIVISION

On August 31, 2011 the head of security at a night club called Detective Barry Radford to report that an unknown person was selling fraudulent tickets over the internet for an event they were hosting.  The club initiated a process where customers could purchase tickets over the internet.  The ticket contained a barcode which verified proof of purchase.  To avoid long line-ups, ticket holders were permitted to attend the club prior to the event to obtain a wrist band after their tickets were verified. The fraudulent tickets came to light when early registering patrons presented their tickets and the bar code could not be successfully scanned.  The club staff conducted an investigation confirming discrepancies on numerous tickets.  Several of the tickets had been purchased by a person using fraudulent credit cards.

Detective Radford commenced an immediate investigation.  Constable Ian Searles created an internet account purporting to be interested in purchasing a quantity of tickets.  After several email exchanges the suspect also offered to sell Constable Searles a street drug known as MDMA.  Investigation revealed that the tickets being offered were associated to the sale of tickets purchased using stolen credit cards.  Constable Searles arranged to meet the suspect to purchase the tickets and drugs.  Arrangements were made to have Constable Elizabeth Harnett pose as the purchaser and a back-up team was assembled to conduct observations in the area.

A male matching the description the suspect provided was observed selling tickets to another victim.  After the completion of this transaction, the purchaser was intercepted and interviewed.  The Officers confirmed that the tickets purchased were fraudulent.  A few minutes after the sale the suspect approached Constable Harnett.  During their conversation, he produced the tickets.  Constable Harnett gave the pre-arranged signal to the back-up team and an arrest was made.  A search of the suspect resulted in the seizure of a quantity of MDMA as well as a list containing names and their associated credit card information.  Nine victims were identified.  The suspect was arrested and charged.  He pled guilty to a number of fraud related charges.

IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR PROFESSIONALISM AND COORDINATED TEAM EFFORT, DETECTIVE BARRY RADFORD AND POLICE CONSTABLES IAN SEARLES AND ELIZABETH HARNETT ARE AWARDED WITH A COMMENDATION.




DETECTIVE LESTER ROSETTE; POLICE CONSTABLES TODD ADAMS, MICHAEL CIOFFI, COREY DUNK, CHRISTOPHER DURST, CHRISTOPHER HOELLER, DAVID OH & ALLAN RACETTE OF 51 DIVISION & DETECTIVE ED ADACH OF FORENSIC IDENTIFICATION SERVICES;

On April 3, 2012 police received a call regarding a female victim who was found lying on the ground bleeding and screaming for help.  It was quickly determined that the location where the victim had been found was monitored by Closed Circuit Surveillance equipment.

Toronto Community Housing Security personnel were notified and the video footage was reviewed.  Investigators realized that the victim had been brutally assaulted.  A single male suspect was identified as being responsible for the vicious attack.  At the conclusion of the assault, the suspect left the victim in a semi-conscious state, lying on the concrete in zero degree weather.

Photographs of the scene and evidence were obtained and an operational plan to locate and arrest the suspect was drafted.  Teams were then strategically deployed based on the intelligence gathered.  The suspect was apprehended and taken into custody.  At the time of the arrest, the suspect was wearing clothing similar to what was seen in the surveillance video.  The suspect’s clothing was photographed and seized as evidence.  Items collected from the crime scene were forensically processed. Blood droplets located on the shoe of the suspect and a fingerprint located on a seized plank were analyzed.

The suspect was arrested and charged.  As a result of the evidence presented the suspect was denied bail and is still in custody. As a result of the combined efforts of these officers, a dangerous predator was removed from the community.

IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR PROFESSIONALISM AND EXCELLENT TEAMWORK, DETECTIVES ED ADACH AND LESTER ROSETTE; POLICE CONSTABLES TODD ADAMS, MICHAEL CIOFFI, COREY DUNK, CHRISTOPHER DURST, CHRISTOPHER HOELLER, DAVID OH AND ALLAN RACETTE ARE AWARDED WITH A TEAMWORK COMMENDATION.



The following citation was read aloud at Queen’s Park during the investiture of the Ontario Police Medal of Bravery by His Honour, David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, on Thursday, November 21st.
  
Constable Sheraz Arshad
Toronto Police Service
  
On the afternoon of June 4, 2012, Constable Sheraz Arshad was the first police officer to respond to a hazardous chemical spill in the basement of a home renovation project in downtown Toronto. Five people still inside the home were reported to be having trouble breathing and were experiencing nausea. The fire service had also been called, but an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) supervisor was the only other person on the scene when Constable Arshad had arrived. The EMS supervisor had already made the determination that the chemical hazard was life threatening.

Constable Arshad was trained in the dangers of toxic fumes and understood the personal risk he would be taking by entering the basement without sufficient protective gear. Realizing that fire and additional EMS support were at least five minutes away and that lives were at risk, Constable Arshad entered the toxic basement equipped with just a N20 bio mask. He held his breath and began removing the trapped occupants one by one. One man was unconscious and had to be physically extracted by the police officer. All five victims were rushed to a local hospital, treated and released. Constable Arshad had to be treated at the scene by Paramedics for lethal inhalation after having to exert himself carrying out the unconscious victim. His actions were attributed to saving five lives that day.