The analysis by KPMG says the police department might be better — and certainly cheaper — if it had fewer cops, stations and cruisers, plus more civilians. No promises, mind you.  CP24

This entertaining report from CBS News may or may not contain very good advice. Few sensible people would want very much money tied up in handbags even these beauties. At least not as an investment. But it is fun to think about. Meg Baker is the reporter.

Many warm welcomes and much kind-hearted effort to see to their needs await the planeloads of Syrian refugee families. It is an enormous undertaking in a very short period of time. It strains our capacity physically, politically and socially. Like most new Canadians, the newcomers will surely find the wealth and standard of living quite amazing. Some say we must be careful not to treat these arrivals as celebrities. The most effective integration will be a quiet one.

The annual Manor Road United Church Santa Pancake Breakfast will be cooked up this Saturday, December 12, 2015, at the church between 9.30 and 11 a.m. The price is $5 per person. There will be crafts for the children, a bake sale and carolling as well as the happy presence of the St. Nicholas man himself who will be available to consult. The church reminds you to bring the camera. RSVP: Please let them know you are coming by writing at  manorroadunitedchurch.com or call (416) 483-0695. Manor Road United Church is at 240 Manor.

Mayor Tory focussed not so much on the continuing illegality of UberX operation but rather on the clear risks and inconvenience represented in the taxi drivers demonstration. The drivers seems to think that the police department can stop UberX. The mayor pleaded with demonstrators to stand down. But was he speaking to them and those who believe UberX is runing roughshopd over the City? It seems an open question.

In a place where even the head the new Duke Heights BIA admits his area has a “spotty reputation” the re-branding of this North York neighborhood may be just what is needed. Wags were suggesting Duke of Earl Heights would really lift the image of the industrial reaches ranging between Dufferin and Keele Streets  It worked for Gene Chandler. Duke Heights locals are investing a lot of hope in transit projects coming to this sprawling area of workshops, warehouses and low-end retail. Ward 8 Councillor Anthony Perruzza has told CBC News the name change is only the beginning of what is to come for the neighbourhood with major projects on the way including the nearly completed extension of the Yonge-University subway line, the construction of the Finch West LRT beginning in 2016 and the main rail line west. It has Mr. Peruzza thinking his ward might become the transportation centre of the GTA.  Duke, Duke, Duke, Duke of  Earl.

Elgie House seen with one of the new homes that will flank it.

The mediation in 2014 that resolved whether there would be new homes on the cul-de-sac of Bessborough Drive required that the pioneer Elgie House be located on the very spot where it was built 130 years ago. This bit of heritage punctilio was at first used to try to prevent the construction of homes by builder Matthew Garnet. The result of the saw-off, put together at the OMB, can be seen today as work proceeds on the new homes which will flank the old brick homestead. For the new occupant of Elgie House (to be determined) it will mean the backyard is in the front yard. It seems quite unlikely the sensitive placement of the house will mean much to anyone else. It is a nice thing that Elgie House remains with us, however.

Michael Connelly

Michael Connelly will be at Sleuth for a  brief appearance tomorrow (Thursday, December 10) from Noon to 1 p.m. He will be promoting his latest novel, number 20 in the Harry Bosch series. This one is called the Crossing ($34).  Sleuth of Baker Street is at 907 Millwood Road at Sutherland Drive. (416) 483-3111. Mr. Connelly is an American author of crime fiction notably those featuring LAPD Detective Bosch (Hieronymus “Harry” Bosch) and criminal defense attorney Mickey Haller. Connelly’s books have been translated into 39 languages and have won him many awards. Michael Connelly was the President of the Mystery Writers of America from 2003 to 2004

Many people are enjoying the apparent El Niño warmth of today’s weather. There is more to come as the Weather Channel forecasts a warm weekend. There is a downside as it becomes harder to keep outdoor rinks open.

A brief mention on Twitter notes that Leaside Wildcats forward Cynthia Cavanagh has committed to play for the University of Waterloo Warriors in 2016-17. Cynthia is a prolific scorer having accumulated ten goals in her 51 games with the Wildcats since she joined the team in 2014.