For me and the Board, one of the highlights of the year for policing in Toronto is the Police Officer of the Year Awards.
This award "honours officers of the Toronto Police Service who have demonstrated exceptional skills, bravery, compassion and a deep commitment to making Toronto one of the safest cities in the world."
I believe that the vast majority of our police officers are dedicated professionals who demonstrate these qualities daily. And then there are those who go above and beyond their daily routine. The award by the Board of Trade, which began in 1967, signifies the community's appreciation of the exceptional acts of those who are chosen for these awards.
This year, the Awards are being held on Thursday June 2 at the Toronto Board of Trade, Downtown Centre. You can learn more about the evening and buy tickets here. The awards are being hosted by CBC's Dwight Drummond.
This year, for the second time, the Toronto Police Service Business Excellence Award will be presented as well. This award recognizes the invaluable contribution that enables the Toronto Police Service to work efficiently and effectively.
This week, Chief Bill Blair recorded a message on the Police Officer of the Year Awards. You can see it here.