City of Toronto completes maintenance work to prepare Gardiner Expressway for winter

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release:  September 30, 2014

City of Toronto completes maintenance work to prepare Gardiner Expressway for winter

The full closure of the Gardiner Expressway this past weekend resulted in a significant amount of work being completed prior to the approaching winter season.

Among the work that was completed:

• 210 tonnes of asphalt to repair the roadway 

• 300 metres of guiderail installed 

• 117 kilometres of line painting completed 

• 210 tonnes of debris removed 

• more than 400 lane-kilometres of roadway flushed and swept 

• 636 catch basins cleaned and flushed 

• 50 bridges cleaned 

• 10 crash systems repaired 

• temporary concrete barriers at various locations between Jarvis Street and the Don Roadway, where work is now complete, were removed, and 

• joints on the eastbound lanes of the bridges at Mimico Creek and Park Lawn Avenue were replaced.

The City of Toronto would like to thank the public for its patience as the City continues to perform work needed to keep the Gardiner Expressway in a safe and operable condition for the thousands of motorists who use the roadway on a daily basis.

This work is part of the City's comprehensive, co-ordinated strategy to rehabilitate and upgrade our roads, transit and underground infrastructure for current and future needs.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/10kfbIO

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 http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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

New construction projects on Toronto's main roads

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release:  September 29, 2014   

New construction projects on Toronto's main roads

Several construction projects that will affect main roads in Toronto will begin soon. Below is a list of four key projects:

• Richmond Street from Church Street to Power Street: 

Two lanes of Richmond Street will be maintained at all times. The work will include road base repairs, road resurfacing and sidewalk repairs. This work will start in late September and continue for about 11 weeks.

• Spadina Road from St. Clair Avenue to Russell Hill Drive: 

The southbound lanes of Spadina Road will be closed, but northbound lanes of traffic will be maintained at all times. This closure is to accommodate bridge rehabilitation work (Spadina Road bridge over the Nordheimer ravine). The work will start in late September and continue until late December.

• Lower Sherbourne Street from Front Street to Lake Shore Boulevard: 

One northbound lane of Lower Sherbourne Street will be closed between Front Street and The Esplanade. The work will include road reconstruction and bike lane installation. This work will start in early October and will run for about eight weeks.

• The intersection of Bathurst Street and Dundas Avenue:

Will be fully closed in all directions from November 3 to November 20. The work will include TTC track replacement, roadway repairs, sidewalk repairs and watermain work.

The City of Toronto recently launched a new web page that identifies construction projects taking place on main roads. The website, http://www.toronto.ca/roadclosures, provides information about where the construction is occurring, the length of time scheduled for the construction, and its impact on the roadway – for example, how many lanes are closed.

The online list of projects – including those noted above and potentially others that are expected to begin shortly – describes current and planned construction on main roads. The list does not include emergency work by the City or by utility or telecommunication companies, or private construction work that results in lane closures.

The list identifies City projects that are taking place on main roads. A complete list of construction projects on all roads that could affect traffic flow in Toronto is available at http://www.toronto.ca/transportation. Every effort is made to follow project timelines but changing circumstances may sometimes require changes to project schedules.

The construction projects identified online are part of the City's comprehensive, co-ordinated strategy to rehabilitate and upgrade Toronto's roads, transit and underground infrastructure for current and future needs.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/1DS3SXC

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 http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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

Road Closure Notification for 2014 Molson Canadian NHL Face-Off

October 8, 2014 , Yonge-Dundas Square, Toronto

To: Downtown Yonge and Dundas Area Residents and Occupants
Re: Road Closure Notification for 2014 Molson Canadian NHL Face-Off

This October 8, 2014, the National Hockey League is hosting an outdoor community festival to celebrate the start of the 2014/ 2015 NHL season. The event will be a one-day, family friendly celebration of the sport of Hockey, and will be free for all to attend. Event highlights will include musical performances, a broadcast of the opening night NHL games on large video screens, and a fully animated sponsor zone filled with hockey activities, presentations, and a beer garden.
The event will take place at Yonge-Dundas Square and will extend into a closed Yonge Street from Dundas Street East to Shuter Street and Dundas Square Street, from Yonge Street to O’Keefe Lane. The main stage will be located on Yonge Street facing into Yonge-Dundas Square.

EVENT DETAILS
Event Name:2014 Molson Canadian NHL Face-Off
Event Date: Wednesday October 8, 2014
Time: 12noon to 10:00pm
Note: Artist sound check will take place in the morning prior to the event beginning
Artists: Bands be confirmed
Location: Yonge-Dundas Square
                   Yonge Street between Dundas Street East and Shuter Street
                   Dundas Square Street between Yonge Street and O’Keefe Lane
Attendance: Estimated 10,000 – 15,000

ROAD CLOSURE DETAILS:
Yonge Street between Gerrard Street East and Queen Street

• Tuesday October 7: Full closure 10:00am Tuesday Oct 7th to Thursday Oct 9th @ 4:00am
• Thursday October 9: Street re-opens at 4:00am
• Note: Dundas Street, Gerrard Street and Queen Street remain open to traffic throughout closure.
• Yonge street between Gerrard and Dundas street as well as all adjacent streets accessing Yonge street in this area will be Local Traffic Only to allow for deliveries etc.

Dundas Square Street between Yonge Street and O’Keefe Lane

• Tuesday October 7: Full road closure 5:00am to Thursday October 9, 2014, 4:00am
• O’Keefe Lane will remain open between Shuter street and Dundas Square Street.

Portions of West Curb Lane of Victoria Street between Dundas Square Street and Shuter Street

• Tuesday October 7: West Curb Lane closure 5:00am to Thursday October 9th, 4:00am

All Stores and Offices will remain open and fully accessible throughout the Event and closure.
We will be engaging Pay Duty Police Officers to assist with traffic re-direction and event safety. Our road closure will allow for the required emergency lane to exist on all closed streets throughout the event. We will also be working with experienced event security staff who will ensure public safety and that all foot traffic around the event moves freely.

Public assistance sought with Assault with a Weapon investigation

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public assistance sought with Assault with a Weapon investigation, Security camera images released

Thursday, September 25, 2014 - 3:08 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is seeking the public's assistance with an Assault with a Weapon investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Friday, August 16, 2014, at approximately 9 p.m., a man walked into a store in the Yonge Street/Elm Street area

- the man approached an employee, 52, demanding a refund for a concert ticket

- after being refunding the money, the man, without provocation, repeatedly punched the employee, and used an object to strike him

The man is described as black, 6', with a medium build, and a shaved head. He was wearing a black leather coat, a plaid dress shirt, a white undershirt, blue jeans and black-and-white running shoes.

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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Robert Lyon, 51 Division

 

Public invited to learn more and provide comments on wayfinding in Toronto

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release:  September 25, 2014     

Public invited to learn more and provide comments on wayfinding in Toronto

The City of Toronto is hosting several public consultation activities to obtain input from residents, commuters and visitors on the City's proposed Wayfinding Strategy and an updated Highway Destination Signage Policy.

Wayfinding enables people to find their way around a city. More than just signs and maps, wayfinding comprises names, landmarks and new media, as well as elements of the public realm, such as lighting, street furniture and public art.

Public consultation activities include:

• September 26: A sign prototype will be installed at the southwest corner of Queen Street and Bay Street.

• September 26 to October 16: The public is invited to visit http://www.toronto.ca/wayfinding and participate in an online survey about the proposed wayfinding map and the prototype.

• October 2: From 6:30 to 9 p.m., an open house about the City's Wayfinding Strategy will take place at Metro Hall, 55 John St., Room 308/309, and will include a presentation on the Wayfinding Strategy and a draft Highway Destination Signage Policy.

• October 3: Visitors will have another opportunity to comment on the prototype sign installed at the southwest corner of Queen Street and Bay Street by attending a pop-up event between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Friday.

The signage system will be rolled out in Toronto's financial district. The new wayfinding signage system is being developed by the City of Toronto in collaboration with two funding partners, the Toronto Financial District BIA and Tourism Toronto.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/1xnwx5t

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 http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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

Man wanted in TTC Sexual Assault investigation

Toronto Police Service News Release

Man wanted in TTC Sexual Assault investigation, Security camera image released

Tuesday, September 23, 2014 - 3:39 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance with a Sexual Assault Investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Thursday, June 26, 2014, a woman boarded a streetcar in the Queen Street West and Niagara Street area

- a man sat down next to the woman and sexually assaulted her 

- the man exited the streetcar at Sherbourne Street and Queen Street East

He is described as dark-skinned, in his 40s, large build, shaved head, clean-shaven, with a visibly broken nose. He was last seen wearing a black hat, white T-shirt, khaki-coloured shorts and speaks with a Spanish accent. 

Man wanted
in TTC Sexual Assault
investigation

Police are releasing a security camera image of the suspect and are requesting the public's assistance identifying him. 

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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Paul Shanly, 51 Division

Dangers of cold water

Toronto Police Service News Release

Water safety message from the Toronto Police Marine Unit, Dangers of cold water

Tuesday, September 23, 2014 - 2:09 PM
Marine:  416-808-5821

With the last weekend of summer officially over, and our first weekend of fall approaching, the Toronto Police Marine Unit would like to remind everyone about water and boating safety.

At this time of the year, people spending time on our lake and/or on our waterfronts should remember to always respect the water and all the potential dangers. Cold-water immersion can be a serious threat and must always be a consideration at this time of year. Hypothermia due to exposure can also be a factor and it can happen faster to someone than anticipated.

We always recommend wearing a life jacket or Personal Flotation Device to avoid any tragedy when involved in water-related activities. But we also recommend, this time of the year, some type of exposure suit, i.e. a floater suit or dry suit, for protection from the elements. It is the law to have life jackets and/or PFDs on board our vessels or crafts but it is also recommended to have them on because they are only effective if they are worn.

With all the different activities, such as sailing, fishing, stand-up paddle-boarding, kite-boarding, windsurfing, kayaking and jet-skiing, it is important to remember that everyone has the obligation not only to obey the laws, but to also to protect themselves and think of safety first. We all have the right to a safe and enjoyable time on the water.

Water safety is a shared responsibility between those using the waterfront and members of the Marine Unit who police them. Help us do our job by understanding that cold water is a serious danger and that we are now facing colder weather. Please have the right equipment on the water and use it accordingly to avoid misfortune. Remember, the best protection you can give yourself on the water is to wear your lifejacket.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Constable Richard Baker, Marine

Man wanted in Assault investigation, Sherbourne Street and Isabella Street area

Toronto Police Service News Release

Composite drawing
of suspect in
Assault investigation

Man wanted in Assault investigation, Sherbourne Street and Isabella Street area, Composite drawing of suspect released

Tuesday, September 23, 2014 - 10:52 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance with an Assault investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Tuesday, September 9, 2014, at 8:30 p.m., a woman was jogging in the Sherbourne Street and Isabella Street area

- an unknown man grabbed and assaulted her

He is described as brown, 40-50, with short black hair. He was last seen wearing a large grey sweater with a hood.

Police are releasing a composite sketch of the suspect and are requesting the public's assistance identifying him.

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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Elizabeth Harnett, 51 Division

Fatal collision #26/2014, Dundas Square at O'Keefe Lane

Toronto Police Service News Release

Fatal collision #26/2014, Dundas Square at O'Keefe Lane

Friday, September 12, 2014 - 3:11 PM
51 Division:  416-808-1900

On Wednesday, September 10, 2014, at 6:25 a.m., police responded to a call for a personal injury collision at O'Keefe Lane south of Dundas Square.

It is reported that:

- a 33-year-old man was operating a 2007 Mack garbage truck and was reversing southbound on O'Keefe Lane

- a 27-year-old man was lying on the ground on O'Keefe Lane, south of Dundas Square

- the man was struck by the truck

The man suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced at the scene.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-1900, 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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clint Stibbe, Traffic Services

Public Safety Alert, Research drugs

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public Safety Alert, Research drugs

Friday, September 12, 2014 - 12:05 PM
Drug Squad:  416-808-6100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of research drugs, available on the internet, that may cause harm or death.

The Toronto Police Service has recently encountered several cases of people in medical distress after taking these drugs. The investigation has revealed:

- the victims purchased drugs on the internet, labeled as "research drugs"

- the victims' intentions were to use them recreationally, for their purported effects similar to cocaine or ecstasy

- the victims overdosed and were hospitalized

The drugs, sold as Ethylphenidate and Methylbenzypiperazine, may be fatal to some.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-6100, 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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Inspector Howie Page, Drug Squad

Parliament Street Closure Between Lakeshore & Mill - September 12 - 15

From Friday, September 12 to Monday, September 15 GO Transit requires a total closure of Parliament Street between Lakeshore and Mill Street to facilitate installation of beam work, sandblasting, priming, and painting of the steel structure.

No vehicles or pedestrians will be permitted under the bridge during this time. Residents should use Cherry Street as an alternate route. Paid duty police officers will be on site during this time.

This work is scheduled to take place between the hours of 7 p.m. (Friday) and 5 a.m. (Monday).

Limited noise is expected as a result of this work.

Public assistance sought with Break-and-Enter investigation

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public assistance sought with Break-and-Enter investigation

Friday, September 12, 2014 - 6:00 AM
31 Division:  416-808-3100

The Toronto Police Service is seeking the public's assistance identifying a man wanted in a Break-and-Enter investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Monday, September 8, 2014, at approximately 9 p.m., a man attended an apartment in the Exbury Road/Jane Street area

- once inside, he solicited several tenants, under the guise of being a locksmith, offering to install chain-locks on their doors

- while soliciting one tenant, the man forced his way into the apartment

- a struggle ensued before the suspect left

The man is described as white, 5'10", 200 lbs., with brown, grey and red hair, a receding hairline and a long pointed nose.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3106, 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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Robert Asner, 31 Division

Weekend events with road closures in Toronto

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release:  September 10, 2014

Weekend events with road closures in Toronto

Three special events in Toronto this weekend will involve road closures. Residents and visitors are encouraged to come out and enjoy these events. Businesses in the areas affected are open to pedestrian traffic but some roads will be closed to vehicles.

Festivals and other special events are important to the city, injecting hundreds of millions of dollars annually into Toronto’s economy, and they are enjoyed each year by local residents.

In addition to road closures related to special events, a significant amount of road work is taking place in the city. People are encouraged to take public transit as a greener, faster and more affordable way of getting to their destinations.

Those who need to drive in the general vicinity of special events should allow extra time to get to and from their destination. A more complete list of road work is available at http://www.toronto.ca/torontostreets/. 

In addition, the City's T.O. INview map at http://www.toronto.ca/inview shows information about planned capital construction work taking place across the city.

Bloor West Village Ukrainian Festival – Friday to Sunday closures Bloor Street from Jane Street to Glendonwynne Road will be closed from Friday, September 12 at 9:30 a.m. to Sunday, September 14 at 11:59 p.m. Note: Runnymede Road will be open to traffic during the event. A series of other road closures involving local roads will take place in the area to accommodate this event.

Polish Festival – Saturday and Sunday closures Roncesvalles Avenue from Grafton Avenue to Boustead Avenue will be closed in both directions from Saturday, September 13 at 6 a.m. to Sunday, September 14 at 11 p.m.

Toronto 5K Race – Sunday closure

A series of road closures will take place in the area bounded by St. Clair Avenue to the north, Christie Street to the west, Davenport Road to the south, and Russell Hill Road/Macpherson Avenue to the east on Sunday, September 14 from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/ZgW8i4

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 http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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

Homicide #29/2014, Jazara Garrison-Downey, 32 months old, Update, Photograph of victim released

Toronto Police Service News Release

Jazara Garrison-Downey,
32 months old,
victim in Homicide #29/2014 

Homicide #29/2014, Jazara Garrison-Downey, 32 months old, Update, Photograph of victim released

Monday, September 8, 2014 - 6:32 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a death investigation, now Homicide #29/2014.

On Friday, January 3, 2014, at approximately 9 a.m., police were called by a then-17-year-old babysitter, to the Wellesley Street East/Bleecker Street area for a child not breathing.

A photograph of the victim has been released.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Shannon Dawson, Homicide

Police request assistance with Arson investigation

Toronto Police Service News Release

Police request assistance with Arson investigation

Monday, September 8, 2014 - 3:06 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

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

It is reported that:

- on Sunday, September 7, 2014, at 10:54 p.m., police were received a call to attend the Front Street East and Jarvis Street area. Police arrived and located a U-Haul truck on fire.

- on Sunday, September 7, 2014, at 11:01 p.m., police received a call to attend the Church Street and Front Street East area. Police arrived and located a Chrysler vehicle on fire.

- on Monday, September 8, 2014, police received a call to attend a Green P parking lot in the Church Street and Front Street Eastarea. Police arrived and located three vehicles that had been burned. Witnesses reported a green Chrysler minivan and a red vehicle fleeing the scene.

Police are treating these three events as suspicious.

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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Saleem Husain, 51 Division

City of Toronto increasing enforcement of construction activity on city streets

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release:  September 8, 2014                    

City of Toronto increasing enforcement of construction activity on city streets

The City of Toronto will be increasing its enforcement of construction activity taking place within the City's right-of-way to make sure those areas are safe for all road users. The initiative will begin this week.

City staff will be making sure construction sites are cleared of litter and other debris, construction vehicles are parked in the proper locations, hoarding is properly located, and that signing and other traffic control measures are clearly visible, working properly and in the correct locations. 

Residents can assist with this initiative by calling 311 to report construction material on city streets or in the street right-of-way, or damaged/missing traffic controls such as a missing sign that could pose a danger to pedestrians, cyclists or motorists. When reporting, residents should provide the precise location of the area that needs to be cleaned up – such as a nearby property address and the nearest cross streets.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bitly.com/1q7eVHQ

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 http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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

Man wanted in Attempt Murder investigation, Security camera images released

Toronto Police Service News Release

Man wanted in Attempt Murder investigation, Security camera images released

Monday, September 8, 2014 - 8:28 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance identifying a man wanted in an Attempt Murder investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Saturday, June 28, 2014, two men on board the Party Boat "Stella Borealis" got into an altercation

- by the time the boat had docked at 333 Lake Shore Boulevard East the unidentified man had stabbed the victim multiple times and slashed his throat.

The unidentified man is described as white, in his mid-to-late 20s, with shaved brown hair and a chinstrap beard.

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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Charles Ricci, 51 Division

Homicide #30/2014, Alexandre Joseph Lavallee, 53, Paul Douglas Richard, 56, charged with Second-Degree murder

Toronto Police Service News Release

Homicide #30/2014, Alexandre Joseph Lavallee, 53, Paul Douglas Richard, 56, charged with Second-Degree murder

Sunday, September 7, 2014 - 3:15 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of Homicide #30/2014, and the subsequent arrest.

On Friday, September 5, 2014, at approximately 3:15 p.m., 51 Division officers on patrol were flagged down by a concerned citizen in the Parliament Street/Wellesley Street East area, regarding an assault that had just occurred in a nearby parkette.

Police located a man with obvious facial injuries. The man was taken to hospital.

On Saturday, September 6, 2014, the man succumbed to his injuries. He has been identified as Alexandre Joseph Lavallee, 53, of no fixed address.

A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Sunday, September 7, 2014.

It is alleged that:

Alexandre Joseph Lavallee,
53, Victim in Homicide
#30/2014, (circa 2007)

- the 53-year-old man was in the parkette when another man, who was known to him, approached and began assaulting him

- the other man was identified as Paul Douglas Richard, 56, of Toronto

On Saturday, September 6, 2014, the 56-year-old man was arrested. He is charged with:

1) Second-Degree murder

He was scheduled to appear in court on Sunday, September 7, 2014, at Old City Hall, in courtroom 101.

Homicide investigators appreciate the members of the community who came forward and assisted with the investigation which ultimately lead to the identification and arrest.

Alexandre Joseph Lavallee,
 53, Victim in Homicide
#30/2014, (June, 2014)

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, 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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Joyce Schertzer, Homicide

Heat Alert declared for Toronto

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release:  September 5, 2014          

Heat Alert declared for Toronto

Dr. David McKeown, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, has issued a Heat Alert for today. The Heat Alert will be in effect until further notice.

During a Heat Alert, the public is encouraged to call or visit family, friends and neighbours, especially isolated adults and seniors who are at greater risk of suffering from heat-related illness, to make sure they are cool and drinking plenty of fluids. Other groups at risk include people with chronic illnesses, individuals with limited mobility or certain mental health illnesses, infants and young children, people on certain medications, and those who are homeless.

The public is advised to beat the heat by taking these precautions:

• Drink lots of cool water even before you feel thirsty.

• Go to air-conditioned places, including shopping malls or one of many local libraries or community centres located in each neighbourhood.

• Take cool showers or baths or use cool wet towels to cool down.

• Wear loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing and, when outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat.

• Avoid the sun and stay in the shade or use an umbrella.

• Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day.

• Never leave seniors, children or pets unattended in a car.

Landlords of buildings without air conditioning are encouraged to provide a dedicated cooling room for vulnerable residents to escape the heat. Community agencies are encouraged to educate clients on the risks of heat-related illness and to call or check on those clients at increased risk of heat-related illness during alerts.

When an alert is declared, those who need assistance or have heat-related inquiries may call 311.

More information on how to beat the heat is available at http://bitly.com/1ks3FTv.

Often, high air pollution occurs during hot weather conditions. People with heart and lung conditions, seniors and children should pay special attention to the hourly Air Quality Health Index levels and forecasts available at http://bitly.com/1neJmrP.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bitly.com/1wbuqhF

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 http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contacts:

Kris Scheuer, Toronto Public Health, 416-338-8020, kscheue@toronto.ca, 311 (weekends) Tanya Elliott, Canadian Red Cross, 905-501-2371, 905-460-7966 (cell)

Weekend events with road closures in Toronto

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

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News Release:  September 4, 2014

Weekend events with road closures in Toronto

Various special events in Toronto this weekend will involve road closures. Residents and visitors are encouraged to come out and enjoy these events. Businesses in the areas affected are open to pedestrian traffic but some roads will be closed to vehicles.

Festivals and other special events are important to the city, injecting hundreds of millions of dollars annually into Toronto’s economy, and they are enjoyed each year by local residents.

In addition to road closures related to special events, a significant amount of road work is taking place in the city. People are encouraged to take public transit as a greener, faster and more affordable way of getting to their destinations.

Those who need to drive in the general vicinity of special events should allow extra time to get to and from their destination. A more complete list of road work is available at http://www.toronto.ca/torontostreets/. 

In addition, the City's T.O. INview map at http://www.toronto.ca/inview shows information about planned capital construction work taking place across the city.

Toronto International Film Festival – Thursday to Sunday closure King Street from Spadina Road to University Avenue: The creation of the Festival Village in connection with the Toronto International Film Festival has resulted in King Street being fully closed from today, September 4, until midnight on Sunday, September 7.

The Festival of Praise – Saturday closure The formation of the parade will result in Rosedale Valley Road being closed in both directions from the east side of Park Road to Bayview Avenue on Saturday, September 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The dispersal area for the parade will result in the closure of the northbound lanes of Queen's Park Crescent from College Street to Wellesley Street from 2 to 5 p.m.

Bloorcourt Arts and Crafts Fair – Saturday and Sunday closure Bloor Street West will be closed from Montrose Avenue to Dufferin Street from Saturday, September 6 at 7 a.m. to Sunday, September 7 to 1 a.m.

Taste of the Kingsway – Saturday and Sunday closure Bloor Street West from Prince Edward Drive North to Montgomery Road will be closed from Friday, September 5 at noon to Sunday, September 7 at 11 p.m. A series of full and partial road closures will also take place in the surrounding area to accommodate this event.

Cabbagetown Festival – Saturday and Sunday closure Parliament Street from Gerrard Street to Wellesley Street and Carlton Street from Parliament Street to Berkley Street will be closed in both directions on Saturday, September 6 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. In addition, both streets will be closed in the same locations on Sunday, September 7 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Bang and Olufsen Yorkville 5K Charity Fun Run/Walk and the Canadian 5K Road Race Championship – Sunday closure A series of road closures will take place in the area bounded by Davenport Road to the north, University Avenue/Queen's Park/Avenue Road to the west, Dundas Street to the south and Bay Street to the east on Sunday, September 7 from 8 a.m. to noon.

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 http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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

How to register for City of Toronto recreation programs starting this coming weekend

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

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News Release:  September 2, 2014             

 

How to register for City of Toronto recreation programs starting this coming weekend

The City of Toronto offers fun and affordable recreation programs for all ages, skill levels and interests. Registration for fall and some winter recreation programs begins at 7 a.m. on September 6 in Etobicoke/York, September 7 in Scarborough, September 9 in North York and September 10 in Toronto East York district.

Step 1: Get family and client numbers

To sign up for recreation programs, Toronto residents will need a family number and client numbers for each member of the family. Before registration day, call 416-338-4386 or speak with staff at a City community centre to get these numbers.

Step 2: Choose programs

To find out about and choose programs, visit http://www.toronto.ca/torontofun or look in the FUN Guide program listings found at City Hall, civic centres, community centres and libraries. Residents are  encouraged to have a few program choices for each person in case the preferred program is full.

Step 3: Register early

Be sure to have all information and payment options ready. Many programs fill up quickly. The majority of registrations are processed on the first day for each district, and approximately 70 per cent of the total daily registrations are processed within the first hour.

There are four ways to register:

- Online: On the web at http://efun.toronto.ca. Registering online is the quickest and easiest way to sign up for programs.

- By phone: Touch Tone Registration (TTR) at 416-338-0000.

- Operator assisted: Call 416-338-4386 to register through a customer service representative.

- In person: Register in person at select locations. For a list of these locations, visit http://www.toronto.ca/parks/registration, call 311 or speak to staff at a City community centre.

If you are not able attend the program you registered for, please let Parks, Forestry and Recreation know as soon as possible by calling 416-338-4386. Programs are popular and many have waiting lists. If you are unable to attend the program, the spot can be offered to someone else.

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 http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Parks, Forestry and Recreation media line, 416-560-8726, pfrmedialine@toronto.ca