Monday, March 30, 2015

Man faces three Child Pornography charges, Brian Mallette, 50, Police believe there may be more victims



Man faces three Child Pornography charges, Brian Mallette, 50, Police believe there may be more victims
Monday, March 30, 2015 - 3:39 PM
51 Division:  416-808-8500

On Friday, March 27, 2015, the Toronto Police Sex Crimes Unit – Child Exploitation Section executed a search warrant. A man was arrested during the execution of the warrant.

It is alleged that:

- a man was accessing and saving child sexual abuse images and videos

- the man was authoring child sexual abuse stories for public consumption

Brian Mallette, 50, of Toronto, has been arrested and charged with:

1) two counts of Possession Child Pornography
2) Access Child Pornography

He appeared in court at College Park on Friday, March 27, 2015, 10 a.m., room 501.

He was employed as an occasional teacher with the Toronto District School Board since 2002. He has worked for extended periods at Earl Haig Secondary School, Northern Secondary School and Forest Hill Collegiate Institute. He was also a part-time tutor.

He uses the online handle “coachperv."

Police believe there may be more victims.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-8500, 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.

This project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services and the Ministry of the Attorney General.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Joel Manherz, Sex Crimes

An attachment to this release is available on our website.
 


Brian Mallette, 50, faces three Child Pornography charges

Saturday, March 28, 2015

"Speed Recruiting" event



Media Advisory, Saturday, March 28, 2015, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., Toronto Police College, 70 Birmingham Street, "Speed Recruiting" event

Saturday, March 28, 2015 - 4:59 AM
Employment:  416-808-8101

The Toronto Police Service Employment Unit - Recruiting Section will be hosting their very first “Speed Recruiting” event on Saturday, March 28, 2015, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Toronto Police College, 70 Birmingham Street.

Over 100 candidates have pre-registered to participate in this invitation-only event. This is an opportunity for participants interested in a career with the Toronto Police Service to speak face-to-face with uniform and civilian members from various Divisions and units across the Service, about the different aspects and requirements of their jobs.

This event will provide candidates with insight to the types of careers available and information they may use to evaluate their own knowledge, skills and abilities to meet or exceed the requirements of the position they are interested in applying for within the Service.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Manager Ann-Marie Henry, Employment Unit

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

121 TPS members and two community members recognized for unselfish acts of bravery, courage, exceptional performance of duty and dedicated service to the community

Media advisory, Wednesday, March 25, 2015, 7 p.m., Headquarters, lobby, Service awards, 121 TPS members and two community members recognized for unselfish acts of bravery, courage, exceptional performance of duty and dedicated service to the community


Broadcast time: 05:59
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Corporate Risk Management:  416-808-7096

On Wednesday, March 25, 2015, at 7 p.m., in the lobby at headqyarters, 121 members of the Toronto Police Service and two members of our community will be recognized for unselfish acts of bravery, courage, exceptional performance of duty and for dedicated service to the community. 

The presentations will be made by Toronto Police Services Board Chair Dr. Alok Mukherjee and Chief William Blair. 

For further information, please contact Ms. Renee Angco at 416 808-7096 or Corporate Communications at 416 808-7100. 

View the Award Presentation program

TEAMWORK COMMENDATION

Teamwork Commendations are granted by the Toronto Police Services Board to a group for exceptional performance of duty, community policing initiatives, or innovations or initiatives that enhance the image or operation of the Service.



PC ARSHAD, Sheraz
PC DEWLAND, William
PC HUNTLEY, Melissa
PC MARSHALL, Kevin
PC MC KEOWN, Sean-Brendan
PC SHAW, Kempton
9560
9772
10396
90054
10356
90278
51 Division
51 Division
51 Division
51 Division
51 Division
51 Division
  
 PARTNERSHIP AWARD

The following member of the community is granted a Partnership Award by the Toronto

Police Services Board for grateful acknowledgement of unselfish assistance rendered to the Service for an initiative or innovation that impacted positively on the image or operation of MR. MACMULLIN, Eric Submitted by 51 Division

Police Constables Sheraz Arshad, William Dewland and Kevin Marshall of 51 Division and Mr. Eric MacMullin

On September 1, 2013 officers were called to attend an incident where a male was hanging off the window of an apartment on the 23rd floor of a residential high rise. The male was only dressed in his underclothes and appeared to be emotionally distressed. Constables Sheraz Arshad took control of the scene and set up a perimeter to keep the high volume of pedestrian and vehicular traffic at a safe distance.

Constables Arshad and Bill Dewland proceeded to the apartment on the 23rd floor to establish contact with the male. At this point the male was scaling the outside of the window and was barely holding onto the metal edges of the window with his fingertips and stepping on the edge of his toes.

Constable Arshad began to communicate with the male through a nearby balcony, attempting to convince him to return inside the building. At the same time Constable Dewland started gathering information from other tenants and learned that the male had injected himself with a drug and was hallucinating. Constable Arshad continued to offer reassurances to keep the male calm. Toronto Fire personnel arrived at the apartment and secured Constable Arshad with a harness, anchoring him safely to the building. Constable Kevin Marshall and Nurse Eric MacMullin, a part of the Service Mobile Crisis Intervention program, also attended the apartment and guided Constable Arshad in his interaction with the male and as a result, Constable Arshad was able to bring the male safely onto the balcony.

In recognition of their dedication in saving the life of a distressed person, Police Constables Sheraz Arshad, William Dewland and Kevin Marshall are awarded with a Teamwork Commendation and Mr. Eric MacMullin is awarded with a Community Member Award.

Police Constables Kempton Shaw, Melissa Huntley and Sean-Brendan McKeown of 51 Division

On September 20, 2013 Constables Sean McKeown, Kempton Shaw and Melissa Huntley responded to a call which involved the sound of a gunshot and a person armed with a gun in an apartment.

Once on scene the officers took control of the situation and placed 3 individuals under investigative detention. They quickly determined that there was no evidence of any altercation involving a firearm but they did however make observations which led them to believe that the apartment was the site of a credit card forgery lab.

Constable McKeown contacted 51 Division’s Fraud office. Upon hearing the facts, 51 Division Fraud Investigator confirmed the officers’ suspicions. The officers placed the 3 males under arrest for Possession of Credit Card Forgery Devices and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime and secured the scene so a search warrant could be prepared and executed.

Constable Shaw noticed one of the accused was in possession of a set of car keys.  Upon locating the car, the officer conducted a cursory search through the car window which led to the discovery of additional credit card forgery devices.

In recognition of their keen observations and diligent investigation, Police Constables Kempton Shaw, Melissa Huntley and Sean-Brendan McKeown are awarded with Commendations.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.


Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Superintendent Kim Yeandle, Corporate Risk Management

Monday, March 23, 2015

Make a Splash contest for Toronto students open for entries

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

News Release:  March 23, 2015                 

Make a Splash contest for Toronto students open for entries

In celebration of World Water Day, the City of Toronto and RBC are launching the Make a Splash, Blue Water Contest for Toronto students. The contest invites elementary and secondary school students to share a story, memory or wish about Toronto’s waterways and say why it’s important to keep the waterways clean and healthy.

"The contest is a great way to engage students in creating a vision for Toronto’s waterways, and to remind us of the need to keep them healthy,” said Councillor Michelle Berardinetti (Ward 35 Scarborough Southwest), Chair of Parks and Environment Committee. “We’re delighted to partner with RBC on this initiative.”

“Water is one of our most important natural resources, and we all play a role in keeping Toronto's waterways clean for generations to come,” said Kim Mason, Greater Toronto Regional President, RBC. “Supporting kids and youth is something that we are very passionate about, so this contest is a natural fit for us – celebrating clean water by engaging the next generation of leaders in this city.”

Two winners will be selected, one from an elementary school and one from a secondary school. The schools will each receive $5,000 for a project to green the school, courtesy of RBC. In addition, the winning high school will be visited by an Olympic athlete, and the winning elementary school entry will be featured in a Kidoons Network Show. All top entries will be featured in a public display at various City and RBC locations.

The contest invites all types of entries, including stories, videos, dance, photography, poems and dioramas. Winners will be selected by a panel of City and RBC representatives and local artists.

Entries will be accepted from March 23 to May 22 at 5 p.m.

More information about the Make a Splash contest is available at http://www.livegreentoronto.ca

About RBC Blue Water Project
The RBC Blue Water Project is a historic, wide-ranging, 10-year global commitment to help protect the world’s most precious natural resource: fresh water. Since 2007, RBC has pledged nearly $41 million to more than 700 charitable organizations worldwide that protect water, with an additional $8.8 million pledged to universities for water programs. The RBC Blue Water Project is focused on supporting initiatives that help protect water in towns, cities and urbanized areas. For further information, visit www.rbc.com/bluewater.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/1N0DtdT

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: Valerie Cassells, Strategic Communications, 416-660-1712 (cell), vcassel@toronto.ca

Friday, March 20, 2015

Police request assistance identifying four Robbery suspects, Yonge Street and Charles Street East area, Security camera images of suspects released









Police request assistance identifying four Robbery suspects, Yonge Street and Charles Street East area, Security camera images of suspects released

Friday, March 20, 2015 - 12:06 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5106

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance identifying four men in a Robbery investigation.

On Saturday, March 14, 2015, in the early-morning hours, police received a call for a person with a gun, in the Yonge Street and Charles Street East area.

It is reported that:

- two men were swarmed by four men armed with guns
- one man was pistol-whipped by two men

The four men are described as black, wearing black hooded winter coats and jeans.

In addition:

Suspect #1 was wearing a Canada Goose jacket
Suspect #2 was wearing a North Face jacket
Suspect #3 was wearing a red hooded sweater

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5106, 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 Caroline de Kloet, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Nick Dorazio, 51 Division



Security camera image of Robbery investigation suspect #1 wearing a Canada Goose jacket


Security camera image of Robbery investigation suspect #2 wearing a North Face jacket


Security camera image of Robbery investigation suspect #3 wearing a red hooded sweater

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

March 18, 2015 Know Your Police Workshop


Public Safety Alert, Arrest-warrant scam


Toronto Police Service News Release

Public Safety Alert, Arrest-warrant scam

Wednesday, March 18, 2015 - 9:30 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of an arrest-warrant scam.

It is reported that:

- on Tuesday, March 17, 2015, 51 Division received over 20 calls from people throughout the GTA

- each person had received a phone call from a man with a caller ID of 416-808-5100

- the man said that there was a warrant for their arrest for fraud, but that the warrant could be resolved by making a payment

- the man was unsuccessful in obtaining money from any of the people who reported the call to police

Police remind the public that warrants cannot be settled by monetary payment. Everyone is reminded to be vigilant with financial transactions initiated by an incoming phone call or email.

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

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Police seek assistance with Sexual Assault investigation, Composite sketch of suspect released





Police seek assistance with Sexual Assault investigation, Composite sketch of suspect released

Tuesday, March 17, 2015 - 3:26 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7474

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance with a Sexual Assault investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Monday, March 2, 2015, during the evening hours, a 39-year-old woman attended a bar in the Church Street and Wellesley Street area and began to feel ill
- between 9 p.m. to 10 p.m., the woman flagged down a Beck taxi and was driven to the Yonge Street and Wellesley Street East area
- the woman got out of the taxi at this location and flagged down another Beck taxi
- she got into the second Beck taxi, when a unknown man approached the woman
- the unknown man entered the Beck taxi that drove her home
- the unknown man sexually assaulted the woman, took her property, and fled

The man is described as white, approximately 5'7" - 5'9", 160 lbs., average build. He was last seen wearing a brown jacket and blue T-shirt. The man was observed smoking.

Police are requesting any Beck taxi driver who recalls taking this woman to Yonge Street and Wellesley Street East or any member of the public with information to come forward.

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 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 website.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Grisel Fitkin, Sex Crimes


Composite sketch of Sexual Assault suspect

Sunday, March 15, 2015

“Traffic Safety” continues to be a priority of the Toronto Police Service.

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Media Advisory, Pedestrian Safety Campaign, “March Break - March Safe,” Monday, March 16, 2015 until Sunday, March 22, 2015

Sunday, March 15, 2015 - 12:00 PM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

“Traffic Safety” continues to be a priority of the Toronto Police Service.

Collision analysis has shown that, on average 50 to 60 percent of all fatalities involve pedestrians. To date, 71 percent of all the fatalities reported this year have involved pedestrians. Last year, 31 pedestrians lost their lives, representing approximately 61 of all traffic fatalities in Toronto.

March Break – March Safe Pedestrian Campaign will commence Monday, March 16, 2015 and run until Sunday, March 22, 2015. The Service will continue to be diligent in the promotion of education and enforcement strategies to further pedestrian safety within our communities.

All officers will be paying particular attention to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians who commit traffic violations that may jeopardize pedestrian safety. Parking Enforcement Officers will also assist by concentrating on parking offences that may compromise the safety of pedestrians. Particular attention will also be given to all intersection-related offences, pedestrian crosswalk violations, and pedestrians crossing in mid-block locations.

All motorists, transit−users, cyclists and pedestrians are reminded that road safety is everyone’s responsibility, obey all traffic laws and be diligent when using our streets, together we can make the roads safer for everyone.

To learn more about the Toronto Police Service Traffic Services Safety Program, that aims to reduce pedestrian injury and death through education and awareness, click here.

Traffic Services is dedicated to ensuring the safe and orderly movement of traffic within the City of Toronto. Stay informed with what’s happening at: Twitter, Facebook Fan Page, Facebook Group and on Blog.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



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

Friday, March 13, 2015

Toronto paramedics deliver food bank donations

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

Media Advisory:  March 13, 2015
 
Toronto paramedics deliver food bank donations

Toronto Paramedic Services and the Toronto Paramedic Association will deliver food bank donations collected at Toronto's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade to the Daily Bread Food Bank.

Paramedics will arrive in an ambulance and unload the food donations at the food bank's loading docks. The food will be weighed to determine the final quantity to be donated.  Members of the Toronto Paramedic Services, Toronto Paramedic Services Association, Daily Bread Food Bank and St. Patrick's Day Parade will be present.

Date: Monday, March 16
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Daily Bread Food Bank, 191 New Toronto St.

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: Kim McKinnon, Toronto Paramedic Services, 416-392-2255, kmckinn2@toronto.ca


St. Patrick's Day 5km run/walk, Sunday, March 15, 2015, Road closures









St. Patrick's Day 5km run/walk, Sunday, March 15, 2015, Road closures

Friday, March 13, 2015 - 6:59 AM
Public Safety - Special Events:  416-808-5054

On Sunday, March 15, 2015, the St. Patrick's Day 5K run/walk will take place.

Participants will assemble on Bremner Boulevard, east of Rees Street, at approximately 9 a.m.

At 10:30 a.m., the 5km run/walk will proceed along the following route:

The formation area will take place on Bremner Boulevard (Rees Street to Lower Simcoe Street) and will then travel:
- westbound on Bremner Boulevard
- northbound on Spadina Avenue (northbound curb lane only)
- eastbound on Clarence Square
- eastbound on Wellington Street (two southside lanes)

Turnaround will take place west of Yonge Street
- westbound on Wellington Street (2 southside lanes)
- westbound on Clarence Square
- southbound on Spadina Avenue (northbound curb lane only)
- eastbound on Bremner Boulevard

The dispersal area will be on Bremner Boulevard (Rees Street to Lower Simcoe Street).

Drivers may experience traffic delays due to this event and are advised to consider alternate routes.

This event will proceed regardless of weather conditions.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Caroline de Kloet, Corporate Communications, for Constable Jennifer Ladouceur, Special Events Planning



Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Police request assistance identifying human remains









Police request assistance identifying human remains

Wednesday, March 11, 2015 - 10:45 AM
51 Division:416-808-5104

The Toronto Police Service is seeking the public's assistance identifying human remains.

On May 13, 2014, at approximately 1 p.m., police responded to a Suspicious Incident at 200 Unwin Avenue.

It is reported that:

- once on scene, police located a green-and-grey Coleman tent with a man inside

- it appeared the man had been deceased for some time

- after further investigation, police determined there was nothing suspicious about the death

- the man did not have any identification and an autopsy did not provide any further identification.

A profile has been completed by a Forensic Pathologist. It is believed the man was black, between 32 and 54, 5'10"-6'4", with short, curly black hair. He was wearing a Tyvek disposable suit.

Inside the tent was a black Neil Young concert T-shirt, blue jeans, a black belt with an embossed design, grey flip-flop sandals and some personal hygiene items.

Images of some of these items are attached to this news release.

Anyone who can help identify this man, or who has any information that may assist the investigation, is asked to call police at 416-808-5104, 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.

Meaghan Gray, Corporate Communications, for Detective Charles Ricci, 51 Division

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

This spring's Doors Open Toronto to showcase the city's sporty side

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

News Release:  March 10, 2015  

This spring's Doors Open Toronto to showcase the city's sporty side

The 16th annual Doors Open Toronto presented by Great Gulf returns on Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24, offering free and rare access to more than 155 architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings across the city.

In honour of this summer's TORONTO 2015 Pan American/Parapan American Games, this year's theme – Sports, Recreation and Leisure – offers attendees a sneak peek inside private and public recreational sites ranging from aquatic centres to athletics stadiums. The building lineup includes the University of Toronto's Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport and the Toronto Track and Field Centre, which will serve as athlete training and warmup facilities during the Games.

An exciting program of free and themed Walking Tours sponsored by the University of Toronto will also be available during the Doors Open Toronto weekend. Tours will delve into the stories, histories and architecture of a wide variety of Toronto's neighbourhoods.

Other offerings this year will include the "Openinsights" Speakers Series on current topics in design and architecture, as well as special programs and more than 55 new participants in the 2015 building lineup.

Full program details, including a complete list of this year's buildings, tours and talks, will be available at http://www.toronto.ca/doorsopen, on Facebook and on Twitter in late April.

High resolution images and background information about the event are available at http://bit.ly/1Aaswi7.

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

About Doors Open Toronto
Since its inception in 2000, Doors Open Toronto has attracted more than two million visits to nearly 650 unique locations across the city. It is Canada's largest Doors Open event and one of the three largest Doors Open events in the world. Doors Open Toronto is dedicated to built heritage, architecture and design. It is presented by Great Gulf and produced by the City of Toronto in partnership with the broader community.

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: Justine Palinska, Economic Development and Culture, 416-395-7318, jpalins@toronto.ca

Monday, March 09, 2015

Proposed weekend road closures for Toronto this spring

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

News Release:  March 9, 2015

Proposed weekend road closures for Toronto this spring

The City of Toronto has confirmed the schedule of weekend road closures for its expressways during the spring season.

The list of weekend road closures includes:

• Allen Road, from Sheppard Avenue to Eglinton Avenue, will be closed from Friday, April 17 at 11 p.m. to Monday, April 20 at 5 a.m. for spring maintenance work. (Alternative date:  May 8-11)

• The Don Valley Parkway, from the Gardiner Expressway to Highway 401, will be closed from Friday, April 24 at 8 p.m. to Sunday, April 26 at 6 a.m. for spring maintenance activities.  The roadway will reopen early on Sunday, April 26 to help improve traffic conditions during the Khalsa Parade which takes place on various city streets. (Alternative date:  May 29-June 1, however the roadway would be made available for the Ride for Heart event).

• The Gardiner Expressway, from Carlaw Avenue to Highway 427, will be closed from Friday, May 1 at 8 p.m. to Sunday, May 3 at 6 a.m. for spring maintenance activities.  The roadway will reopen early to help improve traffic conditions during the Toronto Marathon which takes place between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. that weekend on various city streets.  (Alternative date: May 15-18, opening for Victoria Day).

• The Gardiner Expressway will be closed from Carlaw Avenue to Highway 427 and the Don Valley Parkway will be closed from Highway 401 to the Gardiner Expressway on Sunday, May 31 from 2 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accommodate the Ride for Heart event.

"Over the last three months, the Road Closures Coordination Committee has been working hard to coordinate roadwork, events and TTC track work in a way that makes sense and results in the least amount of impact on traffic. We are providing the confirmed road closures information as soon as possible so that Toronto residents know which weekends will be impacted by road closures and plan accordingly so we can all still move around this city," said Mayor John Tory.  "The maintenance work that is planned is critical to maintain our network of expressways in a state of good repair."

Closing the roads at 8 p.m. on Fridays allows the City to complete the necessary road work in cases where the road is scheduled to reopen during the weekend.

This work is part of the City's comprehensive and coordinated 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/1GyNj64

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.

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

City of Toronto preparing to repair potholes and clear catch basins

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

News Release:  March 9, 2015 

City of Toronto preparing to repair potholes and clear catch basins 

With spring approaching, the City of Toronto is actively patrolling for potholes as they form on streets. City crews are ready to deal with emergency pothole situations by making temporary repairs. When conditions become drier, crews will make more permanent repairs.

The City will be doubling the number of staff fixing potholes this year by assigning almost 100 workers to 25 to 30 crews over the next few weeks.  

Over the past five years, the City has repaired an average of 230,000 potholes annually. The City spends about $3.5 million a year to fix potholes.

Residents are asked to use the City's online service at http://www.toronto.ca/311 to report potholes so crews can be assigned to repair them. On that web page, click on "roads" to create a pothole service request. Residents also have the option of clicking on "open 311API and mobile apps" to download a mobile app to a smartphone, enabling them to report potholes from a mobile device.

Following these three tips when reporting a pothole will assist with expediting the repair work:
- Provide the precise geographic location of the pothole – the nearest cross streets and a street address if possible.
- Provide the pothole's exact location on the roadway – in the eastbound centre lane or in the westbound curb lane, for example.
- Estimate the size of the pothole.

While the City usually repairs potholes within five days, requests are prioritized based on the amount of traffic on the road and the severity of the pothole.

In addition, the City will have crews out clearing catch basins in order to prevent flooding on city streets. A catch basin is part of a storm drain designed to trap debris to prevent it from entering a storm sewer. Crews will be addressing expected problem locations as well as areas around bus stops, crosswalks and key intersections.

Residents are asked to help by clearing ice and snow from the catch basins in front of their homes to prevent slush from stopping water from draining off the road. Residents who see flooding on streets in their community are asked to contact 311.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/1A8Xczc

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 

City of Toronto offers free and affordable activities during March Break

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

News Release:  March 9, 2015      
 
City of Toronto offers free and affordable activities during March Break

During March Break, March 16 to 20, the City of Toronto will offer free and low-cost activities at its community centres, parks and historic sites. Highlights of Parks, Forestry and Recreation division activities and attractions follow, in addition to information about Toronto's historic sites/museums.

Camps: March Break recreational camps are a great opportunity for children and youth to enjoy a range of activities. Participants can enjoy specialty activities such as arts, crafts, music, drama, sports and games. More camp details are available at http://www.toronto.ca/camps or by calling 311. 

Drop-in programs: City of Toronto community centres offer various free or low-cost programs for all ages. More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/parks and by calling 311.

Skiing and snowboarding: The City's Centennial Park and Earl Bales ski and snowboard centres will be open, weather permitting, for March Break. Hours: 
- Centennial Park Ski and Snowboard Centre: March 16 to 22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Earl Bales Ski and Snowboard Centre: March 16 to 21 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and March 22 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Both centres will close for the season on the weekend of March 21 and 22 as scheduled.

The use of helmets is mandatory when participating in programs and lessons at both centres and the use of a recognized ski or snowboard helmet is strongly recommended for all other participants while on the slopes. More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/ski.

Skating: Twenty-nine outdoor artificial ice rinks are open until the end of the day on March 22, weather permitting. Locations, hours and program details are available at http://www1.toronto.ca/parks/prd/skating/dropin/marchbreak/index.htm.

Indoor leisure skating programs, including caregiver and tot, family skate and shinny, are free for all ages. CSA-approved hockey helmets are mandatory for children under six years of age and all shinny hockey participants, and are recommended for skaters of all ages. Schedules and locations are available at http://www.toronto.ca/skate.

Skate at Ricoh Coliseum: Families are invited for free skating sessions March 16 to 19 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. You need your own skating gear, as Ricoh Coliseum does not rent equipment. Children 12 years and under are required to wear a CSA-approved helmet. Family skate sessions are first-come, first-served. No more than 250 people are permitted on the ice at any time. A liability waiver will be available at the Coliseum and must be signed upon entry by a parent or caregiver 18 years or older. The entrance is next to the Direct Energy Centre at Exhibition Place, off Nunavut Road. More information is available by calling 311.

Swimming: City of Toronto pools offer free March Break swimming opportunities. More information is available at http://bit.ly/1hpO6rF.

Attractions

Riverdale Farm (201 Winchester St.)
Visitors can tour Riverdale Farm's scenic grounds to see domestic farm animals such as cows, horses and geese. The farm's Meeting House offers craft activities from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 3 p.m. Farming demonstrations are provided at 10:30 a.m. (goat), 12:30 p.m. (horse) and 1:30 p.m. (cow). The farm is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is accessible to all. Admission is free. More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/parks/featured-parks.

High Park Zoo (on Deer Pen Road)
Established 120 years ago, the High Park Zoo is home to domestic and exotic animals, including bison, llamas, peacocks, reindeer, highland cattle and yaks. Admission to the zoo is free and it's open daily from dawn to dusk. More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/parks/zoo/.

Toronto Islands
Just minutes away from downtown by ferry, the Toronto Islands offer March Break fun for everyone. It's a great place to walk, roll, cycle, explore and enjoy the city skyline. A list of ferry fees and the schedule are available at http://bit.ly/1bMBziB.

Playground Paradise (Flemingdon Park Community Centre, 150 Grenoble Dr.) Playground Paradise offers fun for children aged 12 and under. Kids can play on a two-storey play structure, go down the spiral slide, swing on the track ride, climb the cargo elevator and more. Schedule during March Break:
March 16, 18 and 20 from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m., 4 to 6 p.m. and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.; March 17 and 19 from 10 a.m. to noon A flat fee of $2.50 per child applies. More information is available by calling 416-395-6014.

Conservatories
The spring flower shows are in full bloom at Centennial Park Conservatory, 151 Elmcrest Rd. and Allan Gardens Conservatory, 19 Horticultural Ave. Both shows feature various spring flowering plants, including tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. The Easter flower shows, featuring lilies and hydrangeas, will open at both conservatories on March 29 and run to April 26. The conservatories are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and admission is free. More information is available by calling Centennial Park Conservatory at 416-394-8543 and Allan Gardens Conservatory at 416-392-7288.

Historic Sites
Eight of the City's historic sites will offer events, activities and tours during March Break. Programming highlights for selected locations are listed below. Times, admission fees and participant details for activities will vary by location. More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/museum-events .

Some of the historic sites will also have March break camps. For more information, visit http://www.toronto.ca/camps.

Colborne Lodge (in High Park, Colborne Lodge Dr.): The lodge will offer tours of the historic house as well as children’s activities.

Fort York National Historic Site (250 Fort York Blvd.): Families and other visitors can experience a daytime adventure at this War of 1812 site. Special children's activities include soldiers' drill classes, officers' sword drill, costumes for children to try on and an activity book called Kids' Guide to Fort York.

Gibson House Museum (5172 Yonge St.): In addition to regular tours of Gibson House, the museum will feature an exhibit from the Archives of Ontario called Dear Sadie: Love, Lives and Remembrance from Ontario's First World War.

Mackenzie House (82 Bond St.): Family members visiting this Victorian house can typeset their names on the 1845 printing press, make a craft to take home and eat a cookie in the historic kitchen.

Montgomery’s Inn (4709 Dundas St. W.): In addition to regular tours, on Wednesday evenings Montgomery's Inn presents an indoor farmers market. On March 17, visitors can celebrate St. Patrick's Day with tea-time specialties from the Emerald Isle.

Scarborough Museum (1007 Brimley Rd.): Torontonians looking for fresh air and exploration can visit Scarborough Museum's historic buildings, make a simple craft and stroll through Thomson Memorial Park.

Spadina Museum (285 Spadina Rd.): The museum offers tours with games and hands-on fun in the historic kitchen.

Todmorden Mills Heritage Site (67 Pottery Rd.): Families can participate in March Break fun and games in the valley, with historic toys and parlour games popular with past generations. Outside, look for signs of spring in Todmorden's wildflower preserve with a round of outdoor nature bingo.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/1E19Wds

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:

Parks, Forestry and Recreation media line, 416-560-8726, pfrmedialine@toronto.ca Shane Gerard, Strategic Communications, 416-397-5711, sgerard@toronto.ca

Friday, March 06, 2015

Partial closures scheduled for Toronto's Wellington and River Streets

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

News Release:  March 6, 2015

Partial closures scheduled for Toronto's Wellington and River Streets
 
Lane closures required for infrastructure work will affect Wellington Street starting this weekend, and River Street starting Monday, March 9.

Wellington Street
Two lanes of Wellington Street from York Street to University Avenue in downtown Toronto will be closed from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, March 7 and again on Sunday, March 8 for Toronto Hydro work. On Monday, March 9, Wellington's north curb lane will be closed on a 24/7 basis and the adjacent lane will be closed during off-peak hours – 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 to 11 p.m. – for one week to allow completion of the work.

It is anticipated that the two northbound lanes of University Avenue between Wellington Street and King Street that are currently closed will reopen to traffic on Monday, March 9.

River Street
The southbound lanes of River Street just south of Dundas Street will be closed starting Monday, March 9 for three weeks to allow for Enbridge gas line realignment. Southbound traffic on River Street will be diverted at Dundas Street when work is taking place from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday for the three consecutive weeks. Southbound lanes will be open to traffic during non-work hours at the site. River Street's northbound lanes will not be affected.

This work is 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/17YkfGk

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


Toronto Fire Services urges residents to change their smoke alarm batteries as well as clocks this weekend

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

News Release:  March 6, 2015

Toronto Fire Services urges residents to change their smoke alarm batteries as well as clocks this weekend

Daylight saving time starts this weekend, when we turn our clocks ahead one hour. Toronto Fire Services reminds residents that it's also an opportune time to replace the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Every home in Ontario must have a working smoke alarm installed on every level and outside all sleeping areas. By providing early warning and critical extra seconds for escape, working smoke alarms can cut in half a family’s chance of dying in a fire.

Beginning this year, every home in Ontario with a fuel-burning appliance or attached garage must have a working carbon monoxide alarm installed outside all sleeping areas. Working carbon monoxide alarms alert you to the presence of this colourless, odorless, tasteless and potentially deadly gas.

"By installing and maintaining working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home, you are ensuring that your family is equipped with the best defence against the devastating effects of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning,” said Toronto Fire Chief Jim Sales.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm tips:
• When installing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, read the manufacturer’s instructions on correct placement, testing and maintenance.
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly using the test button.
• Replace smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries at least once a year and whenever the low-battery warning chirps.
• Replace smoke alarms if they are 10 years and older. Replace carbon monoxide alarms if they are seven years and older. Check the manufacturer's instructions.
• Avoid removing the battery in response to the activation of a smoke alarm from cooking or steam. Instead of removing the battery, move the smoke alarm or purchase a smoke alarm with a hush-button feature that will temporarily enable you to silence the alarm.

Homeowners have a responsibility to install and maintain their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Landlords are responsible for ensuring that their rental properties comply with the law. Tenants whose rented properties do not have the required number of smoke or carbon monoxide alarms should contact their landlord immediately. It is against the law for tenants to remove smoke or carbon monoxide alarm batteries or to tamper with their alarms in any way.

Failure to comply with the Ontario Fire Code requirements could, upon conviction, result in a maximum fine of up to $50,000 for individuals, imprisonment, or both, and up to $100,000 for corporations, imprisonment, or both.

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

This release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/1A4ePBf

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: Toronto Fire Services Media Line, 416-338-0763