By Sean Delaney
On June 15th, the 31 Division Open House celebrated its 20th anniversary, along with the Crime Stoppers program. This community event was a showcase of unity, safety, and celebration, attracting more than 200 attendees from the local area.
The event was attended by MPP Michael Kerzner from York Centre and Solicitor General of Ontario, Councillor for Ward 7 Anthony Perruzza, and Judy Sgro, MP for Humber River-Black Creek. Each delivered uplifting messages.
A special highlight was the participation of a recipient from Emery Collegiate Institute, adding a significant touch to the festivities.
Superintendent Andy Singh, the outgoing Unit Commander, encapsulated the spirit of the open house in his remarks.
“Open house is exactly what it means. It’s an opportunity for our community to see the great officers who believe in community safety and believe in the great community we have. It’s a chance for us to welcome you into our house, where we start from when we begin our shift to serve the community. We’re here to show you what we do and are thrilled to do it. Life is much better, and the day seems brighter with your support.”
The event featured a delightful array of food, with hotdogs and hamburgers expertly cooked by dedicated CPLC helpers Brigette Contento and Michael Verrelli. The delicious fare kept everyone well-fed and happy, while the lively music provided by the DJ created a festive atmosphere that added to the success of the day.
In addition to the food and music, academic awards and bursaries were presented to deserving students from local high schools. Superintendent Andy Singh and Mark Tenaglia, Civilian Co-chair of the Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC), had the honour of handing out these recognitions, celebrating the achievements of these outstanding individuals.
The open house also featured various booths, including those from parking enforcement, showcasing the unity and collaboration within the community. These booths provided valuable information and demonstrated the strong connections among residents and local services.
Events like the 31 Division Open House are essential for fostering community spirit and building stronger connections. They offer a platform for residents to interact with the officers who serve them and learn more about the efforts to maintain safety and harmony in the neighbourhood.
Overall, the 31 Division Open House was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of community engagement and the commitment of local officers to their community. Here’s to many more years of unity and celebration.